Pagans: The Wheel of the Sacred Year (opening) from Ernest Urvater on Vimeo.

Paganism in its many varieties is one of the fastest growing religious and cultural movements of modern America. Who are the Pagans? What are they like? What does it mean to be a Pagan? What do Pagans believe, and how do they actually practice their faith?

This program provides a fascinating, highly personal look at several groups of Pagans living in New England at the close of the 20th century. Expertly guided by Ellen Evert Hopman, a Druid Priestess, herbalist, and author of People of the Earth, this program records the major ceremonies of the Pagan sacred year. Pagans contains images beautifully captured by videographer James MacAllister, and a haunting original musical score written, performed, and arranged by Paddy Keenan (one of the founders of the Bothy Band).

Reviews

Video Librarian, Volume 15, #2, March-April 2000
by M. Tribby

Pagans ***

Since Paganism refers to not just one religion, but a tradition encompassing many belief systems, this low-key, in-depth documentary, which follows the festivals of the Pagan calendar, takes care in delineating the different traditions and practices shown. Wiccan, Druid and Native American devotees are seen engaging in nature-based ceremonies, the meanings and accoutrements of which are explained and explored as viewers are introduced to the eight high holy days of the Pagan calendar: the Winter Solstice, Imbolc, the Vernal Equinox, May Day, The summer Solstice, The autumnal Equinox, Laughnassad, and Halloween. There are, of course, no steaming cauldrons or any other kind of sensationalism; in fact, with the peaceful flute music accompaniment, the mood is much like any religious group's introductory presentation. While the pacing is perhaps a bit too relaxed at times, the cinematography is solid and the information should serve as an excellent reference source. Will it turn kids away from mainline religions? Doubtful, but it will explain--and probably demystify--paganism. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P.

PanGaia, #23; Spring 2000
by Leni Austine

This video on contemporary Neopagan practice is a well-crafted and intimate look at the actual ritual workings of actual every-day Pagans. Pagans focuses on the eight seasonal celebrations as practiced by small groups and Pagan families in New England. It shows Wiccan, Scandinavian and Druidic ceremonies, as well as shamanic and Native American components in Neopagan ritual. The result is a warm, poetic documentary that accurately depicts the ritual lives of many Pagans, against the lovely background of rural New England.
Expertly led by Ellen Evert Hopman, Druid priestess and author, and videographed by James MacAllister, the video also includes a beautiful original score by Paddy Keenan. This reverent and joyful work is lovingly made, and quite affirming and positive of Pagan faith. An excellent resource for anyone interested in Wicca or Neopaganism.

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