The Vanishing Acres: A History of Black Land Ownership

The film opens with a funeral, a stark reminder of mortality. Yet, even in grief, life persists – a small act of kindness, an elderly woman offering candy to a child, symbolizes the continuation of a lineage. This juxtaposition sets the tone for “Seeds,” a film that doesn’t shy away from acknowledging loss while simultaneously celebrating renewal. In 1910, Black farmers owned approximately 16 million acres of land in the United States. Today, that number has drastically diminished due to systemic racism, discriminatory practices, and economic hardship. Shyne’s film serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of those who remain, determined to pass on their knowledge and land to future generations.

A Cyclical Approach to Storytelling

Shyne intentionally eschewed a traditional chronological structure, opting for a cyclical approach that mirrors the rhythms of nature and the enduring connection to the land. “I knew my film was always very cyclical,” Shyne explained during the post-premiere Q&A at The Ray Theatre. “I knew that this community was on the fringes, and all these people were at a certain point in age. And I think it just makes sense to go back in time with these participants.” This non-linear approach allows viewers to experience the story in a more immersive and emotionally resonant way, emphasizing the interconnectedness of past, present, and future.

The Power of Visual Storytelling: Black and White Cinematography

One of the most striking aspects of “Seeds” is its black and white cinematography. Shyne described her decision as a way to “suspend time, the passage of time.” She wanted to capture a sense of the archaic and the enduring, highlighting the timeless quality of the land and the wisdom of the farmers. The choice also lends itself to a powerful sense of portraiture, focusing on the weathered faces and knowing eyes of those who have dedicated their lives to the soil. What challenges do you think Black farmers face today that weren’t present for previous generations?

Nine Years in the Making: A Labor of Love

“Seeds” was a nine-year project, supported by the Sundance Institute’s Documentary Film Program. Editor Malika Zouhali-Worrall faced the enviable challenge of sifting through 200 days of footage. “From an editing point of view, it was like a godsend,” she shared with the audience. The editing team ultimately decided to focus on the collective experience of the farmers, rather than getting bogged down in the specifics of individual farms. “It’s like a kind of tapestry of farms in the South,” Zouhali-Worrall explained, emphasizing the spiritual and sacred connection to the land that permeated Shyne’s footage. The film beautifully illustrates how the intimate moments captured by Shyne, even without explicit details, convey a profound truth.

Facing Systemic Barriers and Fighting for the Future

“Seeds” doesn’t shy away from addressing the systemic challenges faced by Black farmers. The film includes a scene depicting a protest against inequitable government funding, highlighting the ongoing struggle for fair treatment and access to resources. Despite these obstacles, the farmers in the film demonstrate unwavering resilience and a commitment to passing on their knowledge to the next generation. Shyne expressed optimism about the future, noting that the farmers’ grandchildren, nieces, and nephews are “very intent on continuing the legacy.” How can communities better support Black farmers and ensure the preservation of their land and traditions?

Frequently Asked Questions About “Seeds”

• What is “Seeds” about?

  “Seeds” is a documentary film that explores the lives of Black generational farmers in the American South, their struggles, and their unwavering commitment to preserving their legacy.

• Who directed “Seeds”?

  Brittany Shyne directed “Seeds,” marking her feature directorial debut. She also served as the film’s cinematographer.

• Where did “Seeds” premiere?

  “Seeds” premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival in the U.S. Documentary Competition.

• What is the significance of the black and white cinematography in “Seeds”?

  The black and white cinematography was a deliberate artistic choice by Brittany Shyne to suspend time, emphasize the timeless quality of the land, and create a sense of portraiture.

• How long did it take to make “Seeds”?

  “Seeds” was a nine-year project, reflecting the dedication and commitment of the filmmakers to capturing the nuances of this important story.

• What challenges do Black farmers face today?

  Black farmers continue to face systemic barriers, including discriminatory practices in land ownership, access to funding, and market opportunities.