Watch Tree Man

Tree Man is a documentary film from 2015 that follows Francois Letourneau, a veteran arborist from Vermont, as he travels to New York City to participate in the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree tradition. The movie showcases Letourneau's dedication and hard work in preparing, transporting, and setting up the iconic tree, which is a towering Norway spruce measuring over 80 feet tall.

The film begins by introducing the audience to Letourneau and his team, who are responsible for selecting the perfect tree for the Rockefeller Center ceremony. They look for a tree that is large, symmetrical, and able to handle the stressful move to New York City. Once they find the right tree, they begin the delicate process of harvesting it, which involves carefully removing the branches and wrapping it carefully with netting.

The excitement of the film builds as the tree is transported on a flatbed truck to New York City. The journey is fraught with logistical challenges, from navigating narrow roads to dealing with the weight and size of the tree. Along the way, Letourneau and his team encounter media attention and crowds of curious onlookers, who are eager to catch a glimpse of the famous tree.

Once the tree arrives in New York City, the real work begins. The film shows Letourneau and his team setting up the tree in Rockefeller Center, which is no easy feat. The tree is massive, and it takes a team of skilled arborists and support personnel to get it in place. The film captures the highs and lows of the process, from moments of exhilaration when the tree is finally hoisted into place to tense scenes where the team struggles to get the tree straight and secure.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to stunning images of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and the bustling city around it. The filmmakers capture the sense of awe and wonder that people feel when they see the tree, decked out with thousands of lights and a giant star on top. They also show the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making the tree possible, from the heavy machinery used to move the tree to the intricate wiring required to light it up.

Tree Man is much more than just a documentary about a Christmas tree. It's a celebration of the arborists and other professionals who make this annual tradition possible. The film highlights the hard work, dedication, and passion that Letourneau and his team bring to their craft, and it shows how their efforts bring joy and wonder to millions of people around the world.

One of the most memorable aspects of the film is Letourneau himself. He is a natural onscreen, with a warm and engaging demeanor that draws viewers in. He is also incredibly knowledgeable about his trade, and viewers will likely learn a great deal about the art and science of tree care from watching him in action.

Overall, Tree Man is a well-crafted documentary that will appeal to anyone who loves the holiday season, New York City, or the art of arboriculture. The film is a visual feast, with stunning footage of the tree and the city around it, and it tells a compelling story about the hardworking professionals who make the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree possible. Highly recommended for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit!

Tree Man is a 2015 kids & family movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.