A new documentary, “Un été à la ferme” (A Summer on the Farm), directed by Hugo Willocq, is offering audiences a poignant glimpse into the realities facing small agricultural operations in France. The film, set to be released on February 25, 2026, doesn’t shy away from the anxieties surrounding the future of farming, particularly the looming wave of retirements without guaranteed successors. It’s a story deeply rooted in the French countryside, specifically the Nord department, and explores the delicate balance between tradition and change.
Willocq’s film centers around Paul, a 12-year-old boy experiencing a pivotal summer on his family’s farm. As he begins to understand the responsibilities involved in the agricultural life, he also witnesses the growing concerns of his father regarding the farm’s future. “Un été à la ferme” isn’t simply a rural idyll; it’s a nuanced portrayal of a way of life under pressure, a world where the next generation isn’t necessarily prepared – or willing – to accept the reins. The film’s release comes at a critical time, as more than half of French farmers are expected to retire by 2030 without a clear plan for succession.
The documentary distinguishes itself by its intimate perspective, focusing on the intersection of childhood innocence and adult responsibility. The farm serves as both a playground and a workplace, a setting where Paul’s world begins to shift as he confronts the realities of his parents’ livelihood. Willocq describes this as exploring “two worlds separated [that] are getting closer,” reflecting Paul’s evolving understanding of the farm and his potential role within it. This exploration of generational dynamics is a key element of the film’s appeal, offering a relatable narrative within a broader societal context.
Filmed in Ramousies, a small commune in northern France, “Un été à la ferme” highlights the challenges faced by small, family-run farms – a sector increasingly threatened by consolidation and the prioritization of profit. As AlloCiné details, the film addresses a growing trend in French agriculture where larger operations are absorbing smaller ones, leading to a loss of traditional farming practices and a shift in the rural landscape. This trend, Willocq notes, is driven by a constant pursuit of profit, pushing smaller farms to the brink.
The film’s narrative follows Paul as he navigates his 12th summer, a time when he’s old enough to assist his father with tasks but also begins to grasp the weight of their concerns. This transition from carefree childhood to a budding awareness of responsibility forms the emotional core of the documentary. The synopsis, as outlined on IMDb, describes it as potentially marking “a passage of relay,” hinting at the possibility of Paul taking on the farm in the future.
“Un été à la ferme” premiered in Lille on February 6, 2026, offering an early look at the film for audiences in the region, including two sons of farmers from the Avesnois area, as reported by La Voix du Nord. The film is scheduled for wider release on February 25, 2026, with screenings already listed in cities including Blanzac-Porcheresse, Montpellier, and Toulouse.
Beyond its compelling narrative, “Un été à la ferme” serves as a timely reflection on the challenges facing French agriculture and the importance of preserving a way of life that is rapidly changing. The film’s focus on the human element – the anxieties of farmers and the awakening of a young boy – promises to resonate with audiences and spark important conversations about the future of food production and rural communities. As the film prepares for its broader release, it’s poised to become a significant contribution to the ongoing dialogue surrounding agricultural sustainability and generational transition.
What comes next for “Un été à la ferme” remains to be seen, but its initial reception suggests a strong potential for critical acclaim and audience engagement. The film’s success could also contribute to increased awareness of the challenges facing small farmers and the need for policies that support the preservation of this vital sector. Share your thoughts on the film’s themes and its potential impact in the comments below.
