Deep Dive: The Moo Man (2013)
Film Lens

The Moo Man is a 2013 British documentary directed by Andy Heathcote, focusing on an organic dairy farm in Sussex, England. The film centers on Steve Hook and his family as they manage Longleys Farm, which produces and sells raw, unpasteurized organic milk. The farm, located near Hailsham on the Pevensey Levels, has been in the Hook family since it was started by Steve's father, Phil, who remains active in the business. The documentary captures the daily life on the farm and the close bond Steve has with his cows, particularly a 12-year-old Friesian named Ida.
Filmed over four years, the documentary presents Steve's efforts to sustain his 55-head herd farm amidst the competitive pressures from supermarkets. It also features the involvement of Steve's wife and four children, providing a personal glimpse into the family dynamics at play within the context of running a small organic farm. The film premiered at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival, where it competed in the World Cinema Documentary category.
Why Watch
- •Meet Steve Hook and his family on their dairy farm.
- •Find out about the challenges of organic dairy farming.
- •See the bond between Steve and his cow, Ida.
Did You Know
•The Moo Man premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 21, 2013.
•Steve Hook's dairy farm has a herd of 55 cows.
•The documentary was filmed over a period of four years.
•The farm is located on the Pevensey Levels near Hailsham, Sussex.
•Steve Hook's father, Phil, started the farm and still works there.
Perfect For
Organic farming enthusiastsAnimal loversDocumentary fans