This is a touching, engrossing film that focuses on the subject of “gleaning.” In the beginning we learn of ‘The Gleaners’ in their historical context, something I had never heard of and would never have imagined being at all interesting (I was wrong!). Varda, the director, then expands upon this notion of gleaning to its application in the modern world. We are introduced to so-called “junk” collectors some of whom are artists on a mission to uncover new/unique/marvelous materials and subject matter, others who are simply trying to get by—to feed themselves and their families, and survivalists/minimalists who are making a valiant effort to sustain themselves without over-consuming.

The characters are hypnotic and the film is presented artistically yet simply and with a soul-searching feel to it; I was mesmerized from beginning to end.