The Seasons Review: Portuguese Pastoral Explores Myth and Landscape

Maureen Fazendeiro's debut feature film, "The Seasons," offers a pastoral exploration of the Alentejo region in southern Portugal, weaving together historical narratives and geographical contours. This hybrid documentary, directed by the Lisbon-based French filmmaker, moves beyond typical ecological doomsday narratives to present a cinematic excavation of the area's past and present. The film opens with vibrant visuals of Alentejo's landscape, characterized by rugged roads and lush vegetation, accompanied by an energetic soundtrack featuring percussion and organ music. Interspersed with these scenic shots are glimpses of archaeological work, specifically a tool hunt for ancient relics buried beneath layers of dust, mirroring the film's own approach to uncovering history.

Fazendeiro's directorial style employs a cinematic excavation technique, blending contemporary scenes with archival footage, folkloric tales, and historical records. The film utilizes extensive tracking shots that not only capture the rich biodiversity of Alentejo, including its green hills and expansive blue skies, but also facilitate a seamless transition between different historical periods. These observational sequences are overlaid with narrated excerpts from letters written during the Second World War by German archaeologists Georg and Vera Leisner. The Leisners are credited with creating the first comprehensive inventory of megalithic monuments in the Alentejo region. Their wartime correspondence, as presented in the film, conveys a dual sense of joy derived from their archaeological discoveries and the sorrow of their exile.

The film's structure allows for a fluid juxtaposition of different elements. For instance, scenes depicting the natural beauty of Alentejo, such as roaming livestock against boundless blue skies, are juxtaposed with the personal accounts of the Leisners. This layering of present-day observations with historical documents and personal narratives serves to create a multifaceted portrait of the region. "The Seasons" delves into the myths and mapping of Alentejo, suggesting a deep connection between the land, its history, and the human stories embedded within it. The film's approach is poetic, inviting viewers to consider the layers of time and experience that shape a place. Fazendeiro's solo debut feature highlights her distinctive vision in exploring landscape and memory through a unique cinematic lens, offering a contemplative and richly textured viewing experience.