Connected By Coffee

Connected By Coffee is a compelling 2014 documentary directed by Aaron Dennis, starring coffee industry veterans Matt Earley and Chris Treter. Much more than just a movie about the world's most beloved morning beverage, it is an enlightening exploration of the complex yet fascinating nexus where trade, community, culture, social justice, and the environment converge.

Matt Early, founder of Just Coffee Cooperative, and Chris Treter, co-founder of Higher Grounds Trading, serve as our guides on a journey beginning in Mexico and across South and Central America. As we traverse through vast idyllic landscapes and narrow city alleyways, they introduce us to passionate coffee farmers who share both their struggles and triumphs, painting a picture of the economic and environmental implications of the farming of this highly traded commodity.

The protagonists take us on a 1000 mile voyage on bikes, pedaling their way through the "coffee lands" of the Americas. By adopting such an unconventional method of travel, they are able to immerse themselves truly in the locales they visit, both urban and rural, fostering organic and significant interactions with local people. This approach to connecting with the local realities facilitates a deepening understanding of the authentic experiences and challenges faced by those at the source of the coffee supply chain.

Throughout the documentary, the intricate struggles of the small producers are highlighted. Facing continual threats from climate change, volatile market prices, and the power of multinational corporations, these small-scale farmers are nonetheless resiliently cultivating their crops in a way that is sustainable and respectful of the environment.

One of the pivotal messages of the movie is the importance of fair trade coffee. Early and Treter bring their knowledge and experience in the industry to explain how our cup of joe reaches us from far-flung plantations. In simple but impactful terms, they elucidate how fair trade principles can make a profound difference to the welfare of these farming communities and to our environment. The importance of consumer consciousness and ethics is underscored in the narrative, creating a call to action towards more responsible consumption.

Furthermore, the film delves into how the coffee journey can bring profound socioeconomic changes to the communities involved in its production. The intricate narratives showcase how the cultivation of coffee can lead to poverty alleviation, social upliftment, community growth, and even women's empowerment.

Visual storytelling of Connected By Coffee is profoundly compelling. The sweeping landscapes captured during their cycling journey superbly highlight the rugged beauty of the coffee growing regions, while at the same time reflecting the harsh adversities and resilience of the people living in these areas. Similarly, the close-ups of coffee beans in various stages of production give a tangible connection to the crop, further strengthened by the moving narratives of farmers sharing their direct experiences with coffee cultivation.

Connected By Coffee excels in its portrayal of the coffee industry. It goes beyond just exhibiting the plight of coffee growers or the challenges of fair trade movements. Instead, it's a candid assessment of where we, as a global community, stand today in terms of sustainable and ethical trade. It opens up a dialogue on the life of a coffee bean right from its origin, its intricate journey from mountain slopes across international brokers and finally to our coffee mugs. This documentary provides a unique perspective into some seldom-discussed segments of the coffee industry - ultimately asking the viewer to consider their role in this chain too.

It has also been lauded for its skillful balance, providing ample opportunity for the creators to voice their viewpoints while giving enough space for the farmers, workers, and locals to tell their own stories. This duality creates an empathic film, relaying facts and opinions whilst telling human stories.

In conclusion, Connected By Coffee is not just a documentary for coffee lovers but a call to reconsider our trade and consumption practices. Matt Early's and Chris Treter's first-hand experiences combined with intimate stories from coffee farmers culminate in a thought-provoking, informative, and deeply personal cinematic experience that brings the realities of coffee production to light. Whether a coffee connoisseur, a sustainability enthusiast, or simply someone seeking deeper understanding of global trade and its human implications, this film offers a unique and compelling perspective.