Educational Media Reviews Online

Though it may be difficult to describe, Deborah Stratman’s O’er the Land it is definitely a unique experience. There are scenes of battle re-enactments, Friday night high school football, tours of recreational vehicles, volunteer firefighters responding to calls, trains passing in the distance, and such. But to describe the film or technique as “slice of life” demeans the director’s vision. These are neither random nor predictable scenes. Though difficult, and probably unjust to categorize, the film blends experimental film with documentary style. It may take a while to put the pieces together while watching, but there is not an ounce of fat or an unimportant frame in the film. The juxtaposition of sight and sound are similar to the successful elements of Michael Moore documentaries. Unlike his films, O’er the Land provokes without sensation. Her eye as a filmmaker captures the irony and humor of that which is solely American. She leaves the viewer to decide whether or not that is a good thing. As an artist of uncompromising integrity Stratman presents her vision without judgment and allows her viewers to determine the truth. A highly recommended film that belongs in any library.