Boatbuilders Review: A Gentle Study of Craftsmen's Quiet Expertise at Venice Film Festival

Luke Lorentzen's documentary "Boatbuilders," which premiered at the Venice Film Festival, offers a deeply immersive and observational study of the skilled artisans at the Brooklin Boat Yard, a renowned establishment on the coast of Maine. The film meticulously chronicles the construction of a high-specification 56-foot cruising sailboat, christened the Kiandra, commissioned by Graham Green, a millionaire financier. This project serves as the central narrative thread, allowing Lorentzen to delve into the intricate world of traditional boatbuilding.

The documentary unfolds with a gentle, unhurried pace, mirroring the deliberate and time-intensive nature of the craft itself. Over the course of a full year, from the initial stages of lumber selection and cutting through to the final launch, "Boatbuilders" captures the dedication and quiet expertise of the craftsmen. The changing seasons, from the golden hues of autumn to the arrival of winter snow, provide a visual backdrop to the relentless progress within the boatyard, emphasizing the continuity of their work regardless of external conditions.

Director Luke Lorentzen, a 33-year-old filmmaker known for his observational approach to documentaries about work, demonstrates a profound level of immersion in "Boatbuilders." This is evident in his previous acclaimed works, including "Midnight Family" (2019), which shed light on the challenging operations of a private ambulance service in Mexico City, and "A Still Small Voice" (2023), a portrait of a chaplain at Mount Sinai hospital in New York. However, "Boatbuilders" distinguishes itself by delving even deeper into its subject, covering the entire lifecycle of the boat's creation.

The film highlights the tangible skills involved, from the precise planing and gluing of wood to the assembly of complex components. The Kiandra itself is depicted as a vessel of luxury, featuring bespoke elements such as maple worktops and an integrated Sonos sound system, reflecting the desires of its affluent owner. Yet, amidst this opulence, the documentary also captures the human element and the perspectives of the builders. One craftsman's candid admission, "We're just the fucking help," poignantly underscores the perceived hierarchy between the creators and the clientele, a sentiment that contrasts with Green's ambitious plans to circumnavigate the globe in his new yacht, while the boatbuilders remain rooted in Brooklin, continuing their trade and raising their families.

"Boatbuilders" is more than just a chronicle of construction; it is a testament to the enduring value of skilled labor and the quiet pride found in mastery. The film allows viewers to appreciate the immense skill, patience, and dedication required to bring such a magnificent vessel to life, offering a rare glimpse into a world where tradition meets contemporary luxury.