About

Synopsis

Entrepreneurship and tradition face each other in two regions blessed with a Mediterranean climate: Calabria, Italy and California, USA. Villagers from Castelsilano and artisan food producers from northern California compare their stories of pleasure, modernity, knowledge, loss, business economics, and the future. The two regions are distinguished by different histories of agricultural knowledge and business practices, but share a passion for food-culture, and a sense of loss in the livelihoods and values of people today. What can we learn by comparing these narratives side by side?

Directors’ Statement

After exploring the finest cuisines of France, London, and San Francisco, Vincenzo Candido (co-director/co-producer) recognized the terroir and cultural richness that makes the tastes of his region so particular. Jennifer Kendzior (co-director/producer) has long exercised a strong interest in agriculture and visual communication. The reverent enthusiasm for artisan produced and prepared foods in California made a strong impression on them, especially in contrast to their commonplace availability in places such Calabria. Together, they were inspired to create a feature documentary to share the very different strengths of these two regions, while emphasizing the importance and feasibility of small-scale food production.