Not since Ulee's Gold in 1997 have I seen a movie portray beekeeping so accurately. There are many reviews of the movie: here, here, and here. Obviously the three beekeeping sisters are headed by Queen Latifah - her name in the movie is August, but that she was queen was also her role. And the movie is about a community mostly of women. The men are sidebars and one is clearly in the role of drone (the man who courts June).
As a woman who was in high school in 1964 when the movie takes place, I don't think Dakota Fanning's character could have moved into a household of African American women without community reaction, but that was not the point of the movie. It was a sweet as honey film with a loving portrayal of women's strength and sisterhood.
The beekeeping was extraordinary. Clearly Queen Latifah was comfortable handling the bees as was Dakota Fanning. I loved seeing them examining the frames of honey in the hives. And there is even tape of a queen bee in the center of workers on a frame! They lit the smoker authentically, wore veils, and August (Queen Latifah's character) advises Lily (Dakota Fanning's character) to approach the bees with love.
(I can't figure out how to post an audio clip to this blog, but there is an audio clip of Queen Latifah talking about her beekeeping education here - scroll down to the center left of the page and you'll see it).
I loved this movie and think it represents beekeeping so much better and authentically than the Bee Movie, released about this time last year.
I read this book twice before the movie came out. The book, by Sue Monk Kidd goes more into depth about Bees and Beekeeping, along with the relationship of the sisters, May, June and August. The movie was very well done and was true to the storyline of the book. I highly recommend that everyone read the book, it is very captivating.
ReplyDeletei hope bee keeping doesnt equate with profit through bee explotation, but rather a safety net for hard working bees to be free while they make honey =)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the review Tillie, I have yet to see the movie. Hopefully, soon!
ReplyDeleteI loved this movie! Thanks for the review and your take on the accuracy. Your blog is fascinating!
ReplyDeleteHello,
ReplyDeleteI just found your blog on Blogs of Note, and it is fascinating. I'm in the process of moving to a country house, and I gave the existing beehive there to a local beekeeper. I kind of wish now that I had kept it.
Secret Life of Bees is one of my favorite books. It sounds like the movie will be a good one, too.
I LOVEd this movie! There is a review on my blog. I saw it last week. I think the review was on Thursday. Interesting hobby/career.
ReplyDeleteI watched this movie a couple days ago, and loved it! I usually don't watch Drama as I hate to cry 'cause I'm such a crybaby, LOL and this movie made me cry. Will be getting the book soon to read. Very touching story. :)
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