The Moon and the Sledgehammer

This startling film offers a striking vision of a family constructing its own reality in defiance of the world around it. Reviewers have gushed about how prescient and wise they are, but instead I see eccentricity and stubbornness, backed up by surprising practicality. The homestead's bucolic setting (booming birdsong and all), the strange 1930s appearance of the male family members with their physical resemblance, and the claustrophobic feel of a world comprising 5 people all transport you for the entire documentary. The family dynamics are gently brought out, providing the nearest approach to high drama. In these cynical times, you expect a sinister dimension or disastrous conclusion but instead quietly bonkers whimsy wins the day.... Now available on DVD and via a certain online film provider.