‘An American Pastoral’ Review: A Timely and Trenchant Observation of School Board Politics

As a cinephile with a penchant for documentaries that delve deep into societal issues, I found “An American Pastoral” to be a gripping and insightful film. Having lived through the tumultuous political climate of recent years, the struggles portrayed in this documentary resonated deeply with me. The film serves as a microcosm of the current cultural wars plaguing America, offering an unfiltered view of the challenges faced by moderates in small, conservative communities.

In the aftermath of a decisive loss in the latest presidential election for Democratic voters, a movie such as “An American Pastoral” might not provide much solace, but it does offer a valuable, intimate portrayal of the challenges they have consistently encountered. This documentary by French journalist and filmmaker Auberi Edler delves into the trajectory of a school board election in the small, predominantly conservative town of Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. The film is devoid of any narration or commentary, instead capturing a tense ideological clash between centrist Democrats and a local Republican Party influenced by far-right Christian nationalism. Rather than offering explanations or opinions, Auberi Edler’s observant film — debuting in the main competition at IDFA and poised to gain more recognition due to its keen insight and timely relevance — empowers viewers to discern the broader picture from the details.

To some international viewers, the concept of school board elections being a significant community issue, even contested by residents without school-aged children, might appear puzzling. However, Edler, a former news broadcaster with an astute understanding of societal implications in everyday local politics, swiftly reveals this seemingly minor event as a battleground for various cultural conflicts sweeping across the nation, including LGBTQ rights, critical race theory, and gun control. The clever title “An American Pastoral” mirrors both the romanticized rural image and persistent religious fervor of the right, while its exploration of a community’s spirit through town halls, church gatherings, and administrative matters echoes the public-minded work of Frederick Wiseman.

As her personal camerawoman, I refrain from interviews or editorialization, allowing the film to shun on-screen titles for identifying important figures and locations. This approach leaves room for intriguing uncertainties: In a town predominantly comfortable in its homogeneity, it’s challenging to predict where residents might stand on divisive political matters beforehand.

Initially, footage showing candidates campaigning house-to-house in March 2023, with eight months remaining before the election, clearly sets the stage for disagreements. Republican candidate Tina Wilson enters homes with a friendly demeanor but expresses worries about children suddenly changing their gender or being sexually exploited through controversial library books. On the other hand, Democrat Kristy Moore appears more anxious and emphasizes the alarming possibility of Republicans gaining control over the school board, while urging for safeguarding minority students in classrooms.

It quickly becomes evident that Moore and her associates face a much steeper challenge. At first glance, it might seem that “An American Pastoral” is spending more time at Republican events and rallies compared to Democratic counterparts. However, as we delve deeper, it’s obvious that this region leans heavily towards the right, with Republicans having greater resources and numbers. It’s also revealed that candidates such as Wilson, along with board members James Emery and the married duo Danielle and Stephen Lindemuth, are all active members of Elizabethtown’s extremist LifeGate church. Here, pastors express their love for Jesus in one moment, only to condemn “liberal school board members trying to force their mentally ill transgender agenda onto our children” in the next.

During pre-election board meetings, Democrats express concerns that LifeGate may be aiming the school board towards a vision of white supremacist theocracy. Instead of refuting this claim, their opponents tend to criticize the left more often. Interestingly, there’s a stark contrast between the political influence seeping into the board and the typically progressive attitudes among school staff: Teachers make light-hearted comments about their approved copies of “A Streetcar Named Desire” being considered risky, and try to engage students in open discussions about gun violence. It’s surprising to find, through a quick survey, that most students support the Second Amendment. Meanwhile, moderate superintendent Karen Nell is concerned that the board might soon force her and other educators to act against their teaching ethics.

Outside the main topic, Edler participates in various local meetings that provide insight into the community’s landscape: these include a “Girl and Gun” workshop for women learning firearms, a Christian men’s gathering discussing the concept of “church platoons” in their “spiritual war” against the left, a well-attended anti-choice protest, or a more casual backyard barbecue where Emery (a frequent community figure) reminisces about his participation in the January 6 demonstration. On the other hand, a peaceful rally for Freedom Readers, a liberal organization of parents and educators fighting against book censorship, is a less bustling event.

In regions where “Biden” criticism is abundant on front porches, it’s clear who the election will favor. However, filmmakers Edler and Bascou keep a tense atmosphere alive in their two-hour production by focusing on personal beliefs and vulnerabilities amidst escalating harsh language. The Republicans, despite questionable strategies, believe they are safeguarding their community’s spirit, while the Democrats, bracing for defeat, struggle to find solace in the place they still consider home.

As a reader immersed in “An American Pastoral,” I’ve noticed a sharp, ironic humor that surfaces when confronting the ideological stalemate among factions. For instance, during a town hall meeting, a state representative from the Republican party passionately claims residents’ right to defend against a tyrannical government. However, it’s amusing because he overlooks the fact that he is, in reality, part of the very government he criticizes.

2024-11-19 16:46

‘An American Pastoral’ Review: A Timely and Trenchant Observation of School Board Politics

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