The Agronomist

One of Jonathan Demme's most important films came out in 2004 and it wasn't the one starring Denzel Washington. The Agronomist of the film's title and the man around whom the film revolves is Jean Dominique, founder of Radio Haiti. Unlike the recently ousted President Aristide, you probably haven't heard of Dominique unless you're Haitian or have seen this film. The U.S. press has freedom quite unlike the press in Haiti many other countries, particularly those considered "third world" or governed by military regimes. The first radio for the people, by the people in Haiti was founded after Reagan became President and is now out of commission, yet again.

Demme's friendship with Jean began over 20 years ago and, almost immediately, the American filmmaker turned a camera on his Haitian friend. And with good reason. The Agronomist is a fascinating portrait of a man considered by his countrymen to be Martin Luther King, Thomas Jefferson, and Edward R. Murrow (among others) all rolled into one. The film traces his life -- and the life of the country to which he is intrinsically tied -- over the last 20 years. If there was ever a woman in his life other than wife Michelle, her name was Haiti, and he was a faithful companion to both.

More than anything, Demme's film stands as a testament to the power of rhetoric, following the empowerment of the Haitian people through the free radio, as well as the progression of Aristide's message and motives throughout his presidency.

The film's soundtrack was composed by Wyclef Jean and most of it can be heard on his album "Welcome to Haiti - Creole 101," available at the iTunes Music Store. One of many catchy tracks, "President" sticks with you for days after you've seen the film. When I first saw the film at South by Southwest in 2004, Demme mentioned that it pleased Jean to no end that there was a young man making great Haitian music and having as much success as Wyclef.

Unfortunately, the DVD leaves something to be desired, as there are no special features to speak of. However, the 1.33:1 transfer from over twenty years of film and video stock is extremely clear and free of unreasonable deterioration or damage. Subtitles are available in English, Spanish, and French, a welcome addition to a "smaller" DVD release.

The going price is a bit high for a bare bones release, but this is a film that is more thorough and precise than the vast majority of recent documentaries by a long shot. Come to think of it, the real special feature on The Agronomist is the film itself. If you don't think you need to buy it, put it in your Netflix queue, watch it, and then buy it. -- Moises Chiullan