Amalie Atkins loving documentary Agatha's Almanac follows Agatha Bock, Amalie's aunt, as she lives her life on a farm in southern Manitoba, tending to the vegetables, beans, and the soil. She preserves the heirloom seeds she has nurtured and maintained for decades, connecting her to her families past, and tenderly supporting herself using traditional methods. Agatha is also 90 years old, with her connection to the soil being a life-enriching experience.

The charm of the film not only comes from Agatha's connection to her farming skills, but also from the various stories about her life that she tells. Whether it's the different suitors who have proposed to her over the years, or an accident that she had while tending to a window, or in one poignant moment, her memories of her siblings who have passed, Agatha's stories show a life fully lived with love, sadness, and joy.

Agatha's Almanac is shot on 16-mm film, creating a warm, tangible feeling that lingers through every frame. The kiss of the sun on a cold day is felt so keenly, with the varied shades of green lifting spirits as the joyous score of 'Green garden music' plays over the soundtrack. The film was shot with an all-female crew over six years, culminating in an experience that is unexpected and delightful, like a warm hug you had no idea you needed.

The following interview with Amalie was recorded ahead of the films screenings at the Sydney Film Festival on 6, 7 and 9 June, where she will be in attendance for Q&A sessions. In this chat, Amalie talks about the tangible nature of the film, one that is interspersed with shots of much-loved gloves, of Amalie's fabric-based artwork, and of course, of the gardens. She also talks about getting to bring her families history to life on screen. We also talk about intergenerational love, and why passing along work practices is important. I had a delight watching Agatha's Almanac, and that delight was matched by this charming discussion with Amalie. To find out more about her work, visit AmalieAtkins.ca, and to pick up tickets to the film, visit SFF.org.au.

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