I've waited a while to see This Way of Life, I'd lived in NZ for a while, before returning to the UK. It most definitely transported me back to a place so often idolised for its dynamic landscapes and quirky folk. I even met Barbara Sumner-Burstyn at The Film Archive in Wellington when she hosted a Writer's Room.But, for me, this documentary felt like the eternal trailer. It lacked pace, or movement, and I felt it was very one-sided. The cinematography was indubitably beautiful; the characters were unforgivingly lovable; and the setting predictably enchanting. The story was one infused with tragedy, resilience and overbearing pride; but spliced with stubborn bitterness and noble horses.As a film, I felt, it lacked impact, structure and punch, so I awarded it a well-rounded six.

As a youth reading spaghetti westerns and every louis lamour novel, it was easy to dream of and romanticize what it would be like to live the life of a real cowboy. To actually live them is much harder. This way of life offers an inciteful view into one families way of life. The trials and joys that come from riding and working. The freedom of a child loping across the plains with the wind blowing in his hair. The sacrifices that come from such a lifestyle and everything in between. Rarely has such a film caused such personal reflection and a desire to revert back to my childhood and my days on the ranch in Wyoming. Growing up in the US and spending several years in NZ, it's interesting to see the differences and similarities of the culture from the otherside of the world. While 'This Way of Life' presents a beautiful way of life, it is not without its difficulties and they are fairly represented in the film. Their way of life is great, but its never represented as the right way of life. Definitely an enjoyable film and one that your guaranteed to reflect back on after you leave it.

This Way of Life is an unlikely fairy tale, replete with bucolic settings, physical prowess in the face of nature's power and a battle against a domineering stepfather. A cynic could say that it rehashes the oft-sketched theme of back-to-the-earth survivalism, or that it offers the consequences of poor planning. Upon quiet reflection, however, it becomes clear that the film evokes the better angels of our nature. It gives us a family dedicated to shedding the impulses of materialism. It reminds one of what is solid in this world: commitment to a partner, integrity in daily decisions, and creating a landscape of emotional beauty within which children can grow. The Burstyns have created an especially prescient documentary for individuals across the globe to have the good fortune of viewing.

Simply the best movie with the best message i've ever seen!the family is beautiful, The filming is spectacular. Everything is real and it teaches you to be a better person. It helps you to appreciate the simple things in life. It shows how there's no better way to live than naturally.All of the characters are as amazing as they are because they're not afraid to open their hearts.Seeing the children grow up and learn from their parents is inspiring to make you be a good parent too. There seems to be no hate in their hearts, only forgiveness and love.