The Truffle Hunters [SGIFF2020]

 A quaint and charming little Italian documentary that was beautifully shot and languidly presented as we followed the lives of these mostly eccentric, sometimes curmudgeon, Italian old men as they waxed - and sang - lyrically or sometimes frustratingly about their livelihood and passion of being a tartufaio. But most importantly, also about their dogs. Which then begged the question, who or what are the titular truffle hunters - the men or the dogs? Or is it the consumer?

There was some education within the documentary on the shady business of truffle-trading but it was rudimentary and obviously not within the primary scope of the film makers. It will help to set the background for those who came into the film with nary an idea of what the heck is the deal with truffles. It also gave the audience a pseudo-villain, a cad really, in the main truffle dealer, to root against. Thereby giving this otherwise immersive documentary a sort of narrative structure which may be easier to follow/accept.  

However, for those already attuned to the illicit economy behind that white gold, then the real gem of the storytelling is the glimpse into the lives of the truffle hunters. Unfortunately, therein also laid the main critique of this docu. We only get a glimpse into the current lives of these fascinating men with occasional reflections to the past. But what we did not get is an insight into their lives, histories, impetus and drive. 

Visually, this film was beautiful. A lot of stunning wide-angled landscapes through the seasons interspersed with elegantly composed shots that often suggested playfulness and intimacy, or hinted at dodgy shadiness. There was also a fantastic use of a "dog cam" - a GoPro? - that provided one of the best visual sequences so apt for this film. 

The Truffle Hunters was an enjoyable and utterly charming film. You will be fascinated by these men and grown attached to their dogs by the end of  its 84 minutes. Kudos to the film makers who managed to get these men to be so open and inviting. What an invaluable opportunity to be allowed into these men's lives. Meanwhile, you may also learn a thing or two about truffles.