Brewmaster

Brewmaster is a compelling documentary film from 2018 directed by Douglas Tirola. The film intertwines the stories of two central characters, both of whom are passionate about their roles in the brewing industry, albeit at opposite ends of the spectrum. Through a series of face-to-face interviews, insightful narratives, and behind-the-scenes tours, Brewmaster immerses viewers into the craft of brewing, the people who have dedicated their lives to it, and the rich culture that surrounds it.

One of the primary characters in the film is Brian Reed, a very talented and ambitious brewer, who is one of the 40 Brewers at MillerCoors and at that time was working on passing the notoriously difficult Master Cicerone exam. A beer expert in his own right, Reed's portion of the film focuses on just how difficult and prestigious becoming a Master Cicerone is in the brewing industry. There are only thirteen people worldwide who have this distinction, and Reed’s journey presents an interesting inside view of what it looks like to ascend to the pinnacle of beer knowledge.

On the other side of the beer world is Drew Kostic, a home brewer turned lawyer. Kostic's ambition is to achieve his dream of opening his own brewery in Washington, D.C., and the film gives viewers a fascinating and often humorous storyline that's riddled with ambition, hopes, frustrations, fears, and a passion for beer. From drafting an initial business plan to seeking investors and space for his brewery, Kostic's journey is an earthier, grittier component to this film that speaks to the heart of craft beer entrepreneurship.

In addition to these two main narratives, Brewmaster does a thorough job incorporating subsets of beer culture, showing how beer has become more than just a drink—it's a lifestyle, an art form, and for many, a livelihood. Among the notable people who are interviewed include Sam Calagione (founder of Dogfish Head Brewery), Garrett Oliver (brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery), Jim Koch (co-founder of Samuel Adams), and a myriad of other beer industry luminaries.

Brewmaster is more than just a film about beer. It is also a sentimental and deeply sincere exploration of human stories within this world. The film takes viewers on an emotional ride, telling the story of people who have decided to follow these unique paths in pursuit of their dreams. Both Reed's and Kostic's lives are detailed with moments of joy, apprehension, and determination that will be relatable to anyone who has chased a dream.

This perfectly constructed narrative around brewing industry and its complexities makes Brewmaster an engaging watch. It pleasantly blurs the lines between a film about the brewing process and a film about life, dreams, and the hurdles we endure to realize them. The film captures a sense of camaraderie among those in the industry, underscoring the notion that beer is about bringing people together.

The quality of cinematography in Brewmaster is also praiseworthy. The film is filmed with a professional aesthetic and perfectly illustrates the mastery and artistry behind the brewing process. From the glimmering golden brews in giant vats to the atmospheric brewing rooms, it is as aesthetically enticing as it is informative and emotional.

Though not a film for everyone, Brewmaster is bound to appeal to beer enthusiasts, history buffs and anyone who can appreciate the passion, sweat, tears, and joy that come from chasing an ambition. Douglas Tirola does an excellent job of showcasing how the deeply ingrained culture of beer has infiltrated every level of society from multinational corporations to local beer bloggers. It's a beautiful cross-section of the culture of beer in America today, offering as much honest information about the culture as it does commentary on the human experiences within it.

Comprehensive, informative, and heartwarming, Brewmaster is a testament to the love of craft, the pursuit of dreams, and the rich tapestry of the American brewing scene. It is a must-watch for any admirer of determination, creativity, and of course, beer.