September Wheat

This documentary questions the uses and abuses of food commodities is concerned. The statements of farmers, scientists, traders, and speculators, as well as manufacturers and politicians are assembled to create a comprehensive view of the factors that determined how wheat was cultivated in the United States and how related markets functioned as the 1980s begun. The film takes its title from the wheat futures or contracts used in commodity market transactions, where the contract months include September.

Directed by Peter Krieg, September Wheat leans on a strong ensemble — Ilse Böttcher, Eleonor Holder, Rolf Klein — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 1980.