The allure of a simpler life, a reconnection with nature, and a rejection of relentless materialism are themes resonating with increasing frequency in modern society. These sentiments are powerfully explored in Canadian filmmaker Sophie Deraspe’s upcoming film, “Hasta la Montaña” (To the Mountain), set to premiere on February 27th. The film follows the journey of a young advertising executive from Montreal who, following a health scare, abandons his urban existence to become a shepherd in the French Alps. This isn’t merely a story of escape, but a compelling examination of choice, purpose, and the evolving relationship between humanity and the natural world.
Deraspe’s work isn’t born from a vacuum. It’s deeply rooted in the experiences documented by Mathyas Lefebure in his non-fiction work, “D’où viens-tu, berger?” (Where do you approach from, shepherd?). Lefebure’s book details his own deliberate departure from a career in marketing and public relations following an existential crisis, opting instead for the demanding, yet profoundly different, life of a shepherd in Provence. “Hasta la Montaña” draws heavily from Lefebure’s narrative, portraying a summer spent tending a flock of sheep alongside Élise, a former civil servant similarly drawn to the pastoral lifestyle. The film, already garnering critical acclaim after screenings at the Toronto and Málaga French Film Festivals, and successful runs in Quebec, France, and Italy, promises a nuanced portrayal of rural life, moving beyond romanticized ideals to confront the realities of the shepherding profession.
The shift in motivations for choosing a rural life is central to Deraspe’s exploration. As she explained in an interview, the historical context of rural living has fundamentally changed. “Before, you belonged to the rural world because your family had a farm. You came from the land and were going to continue working it,” Deraspe stated. “Today, I think it’s a matter of choice. I can’t speak for Spain, but I’ve seen it a lot in France. Being a shepherd is almost a political choice, an option in favor of a way of life apart from a remarkably materialistic world.” This notion of shepherding as a conscious rejection of consumer culture and a deliberate embrace of a more sustainable, connected existence is a key element driving the film’s narrative and its resonance with contemporary audiences.
From City Life to Alpine Pastures: The Story Behind the Film
“Hasta la Montaña” isn’t simply a perceive-excellent story of finding oneself in nature. Deraspe is careful to present a balanced perspective, acknowledging both the romanticized and the harsh realities of shepherding. She notes a tendency in cinema to “idealize” rural life, recognizing that this idealization stems from a genuine truth – the potential for nature to offer a “almost mystical” experience. However, she also emphasizes the inherent difficulties and the often-brutal realities of the profession. The film aims to portray the “crude relationship with life and death” that accompanies this lifestyle, a reality that may be jarring for those accustomed to the comforts and protections of urban living.
The production itself offered a glimpse into this unfiltered reality. Deraspe recounts the unexpected and powerful experience of witnessing a live lamb birth during filming. Having previously observed a calf birth with a shepherdess, she described the experience as “very powerful.” Anticipating the possibility, she had secured permission from both the shepherds and the actors to continue filming should such an event occur. As she recalls, it was a member of the film crew, disguised as a shepherdess to maintain a natural aesthetic, who first noticed the lamb’s arrival. The crew then documented the birth, capturing a raw and authentic moment of life in the mountains.
The Enduring Appeal of a Pastoral Existence
While Lefebure’s book served as a foundational inspiration, Deraspe emphasizes that the film is enriched by the direct contributions of the shepherds she collaborated with. Their perspectives and experiences have profoundly shaped the narrative, particularly regarding the complex relationship between shepherds and predators, specifically wolves. Deraspe observed a pervasive “fear, a kind of paranoia that prevents people from living well alongside the wolf,” highlighting the challenges faced by those who coexist with wildlife. This fear, she suggests, is a significant factor in the ongoing debate surrounding predator management and the preservation of rural ecosystems.
Deraspe resists drawing broad generalizations about the differences between rural and urban mindsets, but she believes there’s a universal human desire to reconnect with the natural world. “That way of conceiving the world, I find it in the rural world, I find it in certain people in the urban world, so I don’t really distinguish between the two things,” she stated. This suggests a broader cultural shift, a growing recognition of the importance of sustainability, and a yearning for a more meaningful connection to the environment. The film taps into this sentiment, offering a compelling exploration of a lifestyle that challenges conventional notions of success, and fulfillment.
Beyond the Screen: The Growing Trend of Rural Exodus and Re-evaluation
The themes explored in “Hasta la Montaña” resonate with a broader trend of individuals leaving urban centers in search of a different way of life. While statistics on this specific phenomenon are still emerging, reports indicate a growing interest in rural living, particularly among younger generations. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, as remote work opportunities allowed more people to relocate to less densely populated areas. This shift has implications for rural economies, infrastructure, and social dynamics, presenting both opportunities and challenges for communities adapting to an influx of new residents.
The film’s exploration of shepherding as a “political choice” also speaks to a growing awareness of the environmental and ethical implications of our lifestyles. Choosing a profession that prioritizes sustainability, animal welfare, and a direct connection to the land can be seen as a form of resistance against a consumer-driven culture. This aligns with broader movements advocating for local food systems, regenerative agriculture, and a more mindful approach to consumption. The film doesn’t offer simple answers, but it raises vital questions about our values and the choices we make in shaping our lives.
The Legacy of Mathyas Lefebure and the Rise of “Neo-Ruralism”
Mathyas Lefebure’s decision to abandon a successful career in marketing and embrace the life of a shepherd, as chronicled in “D’où viens-tu, berger?”, has become a touchstone for a growing movement often referred to as “neo-ruralism.” This movement encompasses individuals and communities seeking to revitalize rural areas, promote sustainable practices, and create alternative economic models. Lefebure’s story, and now Deraspe’s film, provide a powerful narrative for this movement, challenging conventional notions of progress and success. His book, originally published in France, has gained international recognition, inspiring others to question their own paths and consider a life more closely aligned with nature.
The film’s release comes at a time when discussions surrounding food security, climate change, and the future of rural communities are gaining increasing prominence. “Hasta la Montaña” offers a timely and thought-provoking contribution to these conversations, prompting viewers to consider the complex relationship between humans, nature, and the choices we make about how we live. It’s a film that doesn’t shy away from the challenges of rural life, but ultimately celebrates the resilience, beauty, and profound sense of purpose that can be found in a life lived in harmony with the natural world.
As “Hasta la Montaña” prepares for its release on February 27th, audiences are invited to contemplate the film’s central themes and consider their own relationship with the environment and the pursuit of a meaningful life. The film’s success will likely fuel further discussion about the growing trend of individuals seeking alternative lifestyles and the potential for rural communities to thrive in a changing world. Keep an eye on film festival circuits and distribution announcements for wider release details.
What are your thoughts on the growing trend of individuals seeking a simpler life in rural areas? Share your comments below and let us know what resonates with you about the themes explored in “Hasta la Montaña.”
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