The television premiere of Frederick Wiseman’s At Berkeley, his 42nd film, seemed an especially apt time to introduce viewers who may not be as familiar with the prolific documentarian’s previous work. In a career that has spanned more than five decades, beginning with 1967’s hugely impactful, and once-banned, Titicut Follies, Wiseman has focused his lens on institutions and everyday settings, bringing out the humanity in each film’s diverse cast of characters.
While reading about each film is one way to learn more about them, here instead is a collection of clips from some of his work and interviews with Wiseman himself, as well as how to get a hold of them via Wiseman’s company, Zipporah Films.
Titicut Follies (1967)
Frederick Wiseman introduces the film before a screening and then is interviewed at the Stranger Than Docs Film Festival.
Clip from Titicut Follies:
Boxing Gym (2010)
Basic Training (1971)
Model (1980): Two quick pieces on this glimpse into the fashion industry, early ’80s style.
Belfast, Maine (1999):
Hospital (1969):
La Danse: The Paris Opera Ballet (2009):
