Olive oil is arguably the most essential ingredient of the Mediterranean diet. In the stunning southern Spanish city of Jaén, olive oil is a way of life. Recently, a revolution broke out in this region sparking a new appreciation for Jaén’s emblematic Picual olive oil that was pivotal in bringing this city to the zenith of olive oil production. This documentary introduces us to the challenges raised by these radical changes as seen through the eyes of the people from the Jaén olive groves, the chefs who experienced the gastronomical transformation, the olive-producers and the all-important consumers. With precision and emotion, the cast describes the life cycle of olive oil, from the tree to the table, allowing the audience to share the vibrant spirit and culture surrounding olive cultivation and oil production in the largest producing region in the world.
Cinematography
Sun-drenched groves that look edible.
Direction
López-Linares lets farmers speak poetry.
Sound
The symphony of harvest machines and rustling leaves.
Director
José Luis López-Linares
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Jaén produces more olive oil than all of Italy, yet most consumers couldn't name it on a map — this film is essentially regional reputation rehab.
Director José Luis López-Linares spent three years embedded with harvest crews; the 'precision and emotion' mentioned comes from actual 4am picking sessions he joined.
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