Cecil

About This Movie

Cecil is quite the curious gem, a documentary that feels like a time capsule. It presents an old Vermonter, a real character, who juggles life at a local dump and doubles as Santa Claus. The film's pacing is reflective, allowing you to soak in the simplicity of rural life, family gatherings, and the joy of Christmas through the decades. Its homey atmosphere, captured in the late 70s and finally stitched together in 2011, gives it this rugged authenticity. You can't help but feel the warmth of Cecil's life with his wife, 11 kids, and a whopping 41 grandchildren. It’s raw and unfiltered, a fascinating look at small-town America and familial bonds, with no frills but plenty of heart.

Cecil is a rarity in documentary filmmaking, especially considering its long gestation period. Originally filmed in the 1970s but not completed until 2011, it offers a unique glimpse into the life of a rural character that many collectors find intriguing. The limited release and its niche subject matter make it of particular interest to those who appreciate homegrown stories and the evolution of documentary style. It's a piece that might not pop up often in collections, giving it a certain scarcity that’s appealing.