A Mind Like Still Water 2020
Distributed by Passion River Films, 154 Mt. Bethel Rd., Warren, NJ 07059; 732-321-0711
Produced by Dylan Silver and Jensine Carr
Directed by Dylan Silver
Streaming, 39 mins
Middle School - General Adult
Animal Behavior; Animals; Communication
Date Entered: 02/16/2021
Reviewed by Kimberly Poppiti, St. Joseph's College, Patchogue, NYThis short film documents the work of two equestrian clinicians: horseman, Mark Rashid, and equine massage therapist, Jim Masterson. Throughout the film, these two men work with a small group of horse and rider pairs in a multi-day clinic setting designed to help riders improve their relationships with their horses. The filmmakers incorporate video from the actual clinic, along with ambient shots of the natural, everyday beauty existing on the working farm at which the clinic takes place. The narrative revolves around the progress of two individual clinic participants, who are interviewed and comment throughout the film. From the opening monologue through the film’s conclusion, the filmmakers highlight ways in which the advice of the clinicians can be employed in everyday life and used to improve communication with humans as well as horses.
Despite its marketing, A Mind Like Still Water is not an overtly instructive film in terms of equestrian skills, as the filmmakers do not seek to document the precise details of Rashid or Masterson’s teachings. Instead, glimpses of specific instruction are balanced with an overview of the general methodology and guiding principles of their work. This provides viewers with the means to understand the main lessons of the film, which are straightforward and mirror those which Rashid and Masterson seek to impart to their students. The lessons are grounded in a few basic tenets: by slowing down, listening more closely, and responding more thoughtfully, we can communicate more effectively and improve our relationships (with both horses and humans).
Rashid and Masterson are both well-known clinicians who have worked successfully in the horse industry for years. Masterson’s work focuses on hands-on massage used to heal the horse from the inside out. In clinics, as well as in writing about his method, he urges people to use these techniques to “build trust” and subsequently “connect on a deeper level” with their horses. Masterson began his career working with competitive equestrians and top horses on the U.S. hunter-jumper show circuit and offers not only clinics, but also books, DVDs, and other resources to those interested in learning his “Masterson Method.” Rashid is also an established horseman who has authored numerous books about his work. Rashid draws on his martial arts training as well as his equestrian experience in his teachings, imparting to students a holistic guiding philosophy for improving communication so that his human and equine clients can achieve the most harmonious relationships possible.
A Mind Like Still Water provides worthwhile and pleasant viewing. It contains no objectionable material and is suitable for all ages. Filmed, directed, and edited in an understated, yet effective, style, this film provides a practical guide for viewers interested in learning how to communicate more effectively. It is of most direct relevance to those in the fields of Communication Studies, Equine Studies, and Animal Studies, and may be of special interest to those studying Non-Verbal Communication and Interpersonal Communication. It provides worthwhile viewing for any viewer looking to improve their communication skills and relationships with others.
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