Pottery shards unearthed by archaeologists suggest that residents of Armenia and Georgia crafted wine as far back as 8,000 B.C. Quite likely, so-called “wine pros” have been telling us how to taste and appreciate the beverage nearly as long.
Fortunately, comedy writer, filmmaker and director Jim Hodgson has the perfect antidote: His 2023 film, “The Mostly Serious History of Wine”—recently screened at the Center for the Arts in Kayenta during their CineSizzle Film Series—takes viewers on a fast-paced tour of the planet’s winemaking regions and wine culture, providing hilarious commentary throughout.
Whether you’re a longtime oenophile, eager to challenge the snobbiest sommelier in a five-star eatery, or a newbie just getting acquainted with the grape, you’ll find this 65-minute documentary impossible to resist. Featuring upbeat interviews with such experts as Katie Rice, CEO of top Atlanta wine store VinoTeca; the decidedly non-snobby sommelier, Janeen Jason; and appearances by Jim himself; “Mostly Serious” is informative and entertaining.
Learning of the raucous reception and applause his film garnered at the Kayenta screening, Jim emailed: “I am thrilled and flattered that my film resonated so well ... Please tell everyone I'm glad they had a laugh. That was the point, after all.”
“The Mostly Serious History of Wine” may be screened on AppleTV, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube. For more information, visit mostlyserioushistoryofwine.com.