A Special 30th Anniversary Screening • Free Admission • RSVP Requested

This is a free community event. Voluntary contributions are welcome, and a portion of all contributions will be shared with the Montpelier Food Pantry to support neighbors in need.

Thirty years ago, a Vermont dairy farmer named Fred Tuttle became part of a story nobody expected.

What began as a low-budget independent film soon became intertwined with one of the most memorable political stories in Vermont history. Along the way, Fred Tuttle became an unlikely folk hero whose plain-spoken humor, common sense, and deep connection to rural Vermont resonated far beyond his farm in Tunbridge.

To celebrate the film’s 30th anniversary, join us for a special screening of John O’Brien’s award-winning film Man with a Plan. Blending humor, politics, and Vermont character, the film introduced audiences to a fictional campaign that would later take on a surprising life of its own.

Whether you remember Fred’s real-life Senate campaign, the film that came before it, or are discovering the story for the first time, Man with a Plan offers a funny, thoughtful, and distinctly Vermont perspective on public life, community, and civic engagement.

Following the screening, filmmaker John O’Brien will be joined by original cast members Bryan Pfeiffer and Tom Blachly along with Pelin Kohn, Montpelier City Councilor, for a discussion about the film, where Vermont stands today, and the challenges and opportunities shaping our communities. The conversation will be moderated by Chad Ervin, President of the Vermont Production Collective.

Together, they will explore what Vermont can learn from Fred Tuttle’s story and discuss issues including affordability, civic engagement, local leadership, and how ordinary citizens can help shape Vermont’s future.

Community Supporter: East Montpelier Center Farm

Join us for an evening of film, conversation, and a look back at one of Vermont’s most memorable and enduring stories.