a northwest regional film documentary
Grand Theatre - CROOKSTON / circa 2024
The Harvest is a documentary about an annual beet harvest that has taken place annually since the early 1900s. The video presents a story of the sugar beet harvest, not from a land owner’s point of view, but from the view of people who have provided the labor force for more than five generations – primarily Latinx migrants and their descendants. The film presents the economic impact of the beet harvest, generational teachings, and insight into how the Latinx community finds commonality and a sense of place in the act of participating in the harvest.
The screening and subsequent reception will take place in honor of José Oscar Leal - the centerpiece of the film, who recently passed away. His wife Carmen (also featured in the film), his son Tomas Leal and possibly more family members will be in attendance.
Our hope is that all those that knew Oscar - that worked with him and felt a connection to his legacy, will be able to attend.
We will also host a meal at studio 110 following the screening - where filmmakers and family will be present to answer questions, visit and share memories. Please spread the word and let us know if you can attend by indicating your interest here.
Specific questions about the screening can be sent to info@in-progress.org
FEATURING
Carmen Leal
José Oscar Leal
Diana Gonzalez
Production team
Rena Bouchard Zapata, Producer
Regina Zapata, Production Liaison
Roxanne Zapata, Talent Liaison
Robert Adam Torres, Cinematographer / Editor
Gilbert Hernandez, Cinematographer / Editor
Chistopher Espericueta, Cinematographer
Aladdin Bankhead, Editor
Support team
Bienvenida Matias, producing/production management advisor
Kristine Sorensen, producing/editing advisor
Xavier Tavera, script development/cinematography advisor
Sai Thao, cultural storytelling advisor
Kazua Melissa Vang, community engagement
SCREENINGS
The Harvest was originally completed in August 2023 with a second revision completed in 2024. If you would like to host a screening please send us an email by hitting the inquiry button at the bottom of this page.
Photo Documentation
FUNDERS
Supporters for this film project include: The Minnesota Humanities Center, The McKnight Foundation, The Minnesota State Arts Board Creative Support Fund, Propel Non Profits, and the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council. This activity is made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
