The Tree of Wooden Clogs

A pastoral film about the everyday life, traditions, and annual cycle of rural peasants — their joys and sorrows. A quiet masterpiece of world cinema, shot entirely on location with non-professional actors. Told in an almost documentary style, the story follows the lives of 19th-century Lombardian peasants and is based on the memories of the director’s grandfather.

To make the film, Olmi spent a great deal of time in the countryside, speaking with locals and involving them in the production as actors. The film is often compared to the work of Yasujirō Ozu — both directors focus on the everyday lives of ordinary people, portraying them with deep affection and understanding.

Palme d'Or and Prize of the Ecumenical Jury at the Cannes Film Festival