Ant Stone I've waited a while to see This Way of Life, I'd lived in NZ for a while, before returning to the UK. It most definitely transported me back to a place so often idolised for its dynamic landscapes and quirky folk. I even met Barbara Sumner-Burstyn at The Film Archive in Wellington when she hosted a Writer's Room.But, for me, this documentary felt like the eternal trailer. It lacked pace, or movement, and I felt it was very one-sided. The cinematography was indubitably beautiful; the characters were unforgivingly lovable; and the setting predictably enchanting. The story was one infused with tragedy, resilience and overbearing pride; but spliced with stubborn bitterness and noble horses.As a film, I felt, it lacked impact, structure and punch, so I awarded it a well-rounded six.

steventhibault-1 As portrayed in this visually stunning documentary, Peter (possibly unknowingly) represents that ability to focus on the important: family responsibility & bonds, shelter over their heads, food on the table, and the spirit of someone that embraces the circle of life. He is very primal in so many ways that he reminds me of what we used to be before we "made our lives easier" via technology and "advancements". Maybe Peter's approach to life should be used as a guideline to bring us back to the old ways, with a heavy dose of experience to even it out... Why can't we let life be simple yet elegant, trying yet fruitful, and beautiful yet tragic... We should all work on being true and authentic to that simplicity.

contoocook This Way of Life is an unlikely fairy tale, replete with bucolic settings, physical prowess in the face of nature's power and a battle against a domineering stepfather. A cynic could say that it rehashes the oft-sketched theme of back-to-the-earth survivalism, or that it offers the consequences of poor planning. Upon quiet reflection, however, it becomes clear that the film evokes the better angels of our nature. It gives us a family dedicated to shedding the impulses of materialism. It reminds one of what is solid in this world: commitment to a partner, integrity in daily decisions, and creating a landscape of emotional beauty within which children can grow. The Burstyns have created an especially prescient documentary for individuals across the globe to have the good fortune of viewing.

joncathb Our family just finished watching This Way of Life on Knowledge Network, and all I can say is not a word was spoken through the whole program. I was amazed at this family's strength, love and grace. I must admit I had tears streaming down my face many times, my husband wiped at his eyes a few times as well. What struck me so hard was Peter at times almost speaking lovingly of this man who was never a father to him. How horrible for the father to live with such anger, hate and resentment. It also made me wonder where his mother was through all this. Colleen was beautiful, caring and sensitive and a wonderful mother. Thank you for bringing this to us. It's a film our family will never forget.