Ep 19. Farmer Veteran

Farmer Veteran is a heartwarming and inspiring episode of the Emmy Award-winning documentary series Independent Lens. In this episode, viewers follow the journey of Alex Sutton, a U.S. Army veteran who returns to his family's farm in North Carolina after serving in Afghanistan. Sutton's transition back to civilian life is a challenging one, but he finds solace and purpose in working the land.

Through interviews with Sutton and his family, as well as footage of him working on the farm, viewers gain insight into the struggles and triumphs of a veteran trying to adapt to civilian life. Sutton explains how his time in combat affected him and how he struggled to find his place in the world when he returned home. But, as he began to work on the farm, he found a sense of purpose and a way to contribute to his community.

The episode also explores the challenges faced by many veterans as they attempt to reintegrate into society. Sutton's case is not unique, and the film highlights the many obstacles that veterans face, including PTSD, physical injuries, and difficulty finding employment. Viewers are introduced to several organizations that are working to help veterans, including the Farmer Veteran Coalition, which provides mentoring, networking, and other resources to help veterans start careers in agriculture.

As the episode progresses, viewers are introduced to other farmer veterans who have found success in agriculture. The filmmakers highlight their stories and showcase the positive impact that farming has had on their lives. We see how they have found a sense of purpose, a way to contribute to their communities, and a way to heal from the wounds of war.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning cinematography that captures the beauty of the North Carolina countryside. We see rolling hills, verdant pastures, and acres of crops stretching as far as the eye can see. It's clear that Sutton and his fellow farmer veterans have found something precious in the land, and the film effectively conveys the magic of working with soil and plants.

Perhaps the most touching aspect of Farmer Veteran is the relationships that are on display. Sutton's bond with his family and his fellow farmers is palpable and heartwarming. We see how they rally around him when he needs help, and how he supports them in turn. It's a testament to the power of community and the importance of having a network of people who care about you.

Overall, Independent Lens season 18 episode 19 - Farmer Veteran, is a powerful and uplifting piece of documentary filmmaking. It sheds light on an important issue in our society - the struggles that veterans face as they try to reintegrate into civilian life - while also conveying a message of hope and triumph. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and viewers will be left feeling inspired and uplifted after watching it.