A Small Good Thing
Directed by Pamela Tanner Boll
This feature-length documentary is set in western Massachusetts in the Berkshires, long a destination for change-seekers, spiritual explorers, artists, and musicians seeking solace and stimulation amid the pastoral landscape — the perfect setting for a story about renewing personal and universal bonds. The film follows innovative farmer Sean Stanton, social work student Tim Durrin and yoga teacher Mark Gerow, whose earlier careers in the armed forces have now shifted to service of a different kind; Jen and Pete Salinetti, a college-educated couple with two small children who have chosen to be farmers as a way to connect with their community; and Shirley Edgerton, community activist and founder of both the Youth Alive Step Team and the Women of Color Giving Circle. What these people share is a deep desire to have more meaning in their lives, a closer bond with their families and communities, and a connection to themselves and the natural world.
Reviews
“Happiness is tough to quantify; but the film is to be praised for trying to get its arms around it and us, gently, trusting us to respond.” -The Artery
"This award-winning documentary, “A Small Good Thing,” offers a few perspectives on happiness without pontificating.” -AXS
“An insightful look at the essence of happiness and begs the question, ‘Will having more make life better?’” -Examiner
“The movie is upbeat about people’s ability to change their own lives and improve the communities where they live, but without being saccharine or Polyanna-ish.” -Business for a Better World
“Open[ed] up my eyes to the fact that people actually CAN have a different lifestyle and be happy.” -Fab in Your 40s
"The values of a small community provide insight on how a balance between individualism and a sense of 'common cause and humanity' can contribute to a more satisfying life." -Art Fuse