The question of how we live, and why, is at the heart of Sophie Deraspe’s new film, “Hasta la Montaña” (To the Mountain), premiering February 27th. The film follows a young advertising executive from Montreal who, following a health scare, abandons the demands of urban life to pursue a radically different existence as a shepherd in the French Alps. It’s a story that resonates with a growing sense of disillusionment with modern life, and a search for something more authentic, a theme Deraspe believes is increasingly common.
Deraspe argues that the motivations for choosing a rural lifestyle have shifted. “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,” she explained in an interview with Europa Press. “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 shift reflects a broader questioning of societal values and a desire for a more meaningful connection to nature and a simpler way of life.
The film is based on the semi-autobiographical novel “D’où viens-tu, berger?” (Where do you approach from, shepherd?) by Mathyas Lefebure. Lefebure’s book details his own journey from a career in marketing and public relations to becoming a shepherd in Provence after experiencing an existential crisis. The film, according to Europa Press, aims to portray both the romanticized and often harsh realities of shepherding.
From Advertising to Alpine Pastures: The Story Behind the Film
“Hasta la Montaña” isn’t simply a story of escape; it’s a nuanced exploration of identity and purpose. The film follows Mathyas as he spends a summer in the mountains with a flock of sheep, joined by Élise, a former civil servant who is drawn to his pastoral lifestyle. Deraspe intentionally avoids a purely idyllic portrayal of rural life. She notes a tendency in cinema to “idealize” the countryside, acknowledging that whereas this idealization reflects a genuine potential for nature to offer a “almost mystical” experience, it often overlooks the challenges and hardships inherent in the work.
The film’s production itself offered a glimpse into the realities of shepherding. Deraspe recounted a particularly poignant moment during filming: a real-life lamb birth. She had previously witnessed a calf birth with a shepherdess, an experience she described as “very powerful.” “I was hoping that would happen during the shoot, but we couldn’t pretend to film a birth on June 6th at 2:00 PM,” she said, as reported by Europa Press. To prepare for such an eventuality, Deraspe secured permission from both the shepherds and the actors to continue filming if a birth occurred naturally.
A Changing Relationship with the Land
Deraspe emphasizes that the film isn’t just about one man’s personal journey, but similarly about a broader cultural shift. She highlights the complex relationship between humans and the natural world, particularly the anxieties surrounding predators like wolves. “There is a lot of fear, a kind of paranoia that prevents people from living well alongside the wolf,” she noted. This fear, she suggests, speaks to a disconnect from the natural rhythms of life and a desire for control.
The film, which premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and was screened at the Cannes Film Market, has already garnered critical acclaim. According to Wikipedia, Pat Mullen of That Shelf described the film as “a sumptuous drama” that “rejuvenates a viewer like a crisp flick of fresh air.” The film was also named to TIFF’s annual Canada’s Top Ten list for 2024.
Beyond the Romance: The Practicalities of a Pastoral Life
While the allure of a simpler life is strong, Deraspe doesn’t shy away from depicting the practical challenges of shepherding. The film, inspired by Lefebure’s own experiences, aims to present a realistic portrayal of the work, including the physical demands, the isolation, and the constant vigilance required to protect the flock. This commitment to authenticity is what sets “Hasta la Montaña” apart, offering a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of a life less ordinary.
The film’s release comes at a time when many are re-evaluating their priorities and seeking alternatives to the pressures of modern society. The choice to grow a shepherd, as Deraspe suggests, is increasingly seen not just as a profession, but as a deliberate act of resistance against a culture often perceived as overly materialistic and disconnected from nature. The film’s exploration of this theme is likely to resonate with audiences grappling with similar questions.
“Hasta la Montaña” opens in theaters on February 27th. The film’s success in Canada, France, and Italy, as reported by Archyde, suggests a broad appeal for stories that challenge conventional notions of success and fulfillment.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about a film and its themes. This proves not intended to provide financial, medical, or legal advice.
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