Wine and War (2020)

Review Team

4/5

Wine and War is a compelling documentary that captures the essence of resilience in one of the world’s oldest winemaking regions. Directed by Mark Johnston, the film intricately weaves together personal stories of Lebanese winemakers who persist in their craft despite the ravages of war. The cinemat ... Show more >> Wine and War is a compelling documentary that captures the essence of resilience in one of the world’s oldest winemaking regions. Directed by Mark Johnston, the film intricately weaves together personal stories of Lebanese winemakers who persist in their craft despite the ravages of war. The cinematography beautifully showcases the vineyards against a backdrop of historical turmoil, creating a striking contrast that is both poignant and enlightening. The interviews provide depth, allowing viewers to connect with the emotional weight of the subjects' experiences. The film does not shy away from the harsh realities of conflict but balances this with a celebration of cultural heritage. Overall, Wine and War is a thought-provoking exploration of how passion can endure even in the face of adversity, making it a valuable watch for anyone interested in the interplay of culture and history. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Wine and War is an interesting documentary that attempts to shine a light on the Lebanese winemaking tradition amidst the chaos of conflict. While the subject is undoubtedly important, I found the film’s pacing a bit uneven. Some segments felt rushed, while others lingered too long on details that c ... Show more >> Wine and War is an interesting documentary that attempts to shine a light on the Lebanese winemaking tradition amidst the chaos of conflict. While the subject is undoubtedly important, I found the film’s pacing a bit uneven. Some segments felt rushed, while others lingered too long on details that could have been trimmed. The stories of the winemakers are touching, and there are moments that truly resonate, particularly when they discuss their love for the land and the craft. However, I wished for a deeper exploration of the socio-political factors affecting these communities. The film gives a good overview but doesn’t quite delve as deeply as it could into the complexities of the conflict. Still, it’s worth a watch for those curious about how culture survives in tough times. Show less