Frederick Wiseman: An American Institution

On January 31, Film at Lincoln Center opened a landmark new retrospective titled Frederick Wiseman: An American Institution. The series showcases new 4K restorations of over thirty of the filmmaker’s works, which together form a monumental survey of modern American life—with a frequent focus on the intersections of individuals and institutions. Wiseman just turned 95 on New Year’s Day, and the FLC series comes on the heels of similar retrospectives in Chicago, Portland, Maine, and Vancouver—with more planned for Paris, Los Angeles, St. Louis, Boston, and beyond.

How does one even begin to consider a body of work so sprawling, so rigorous, and so significant? For today’s episode, Movie how hosted a “Wiseman Potluck,” where each guest was tasked with bringing one film that especially resonates with them to the discussion. Editors Clinton Krute and Devika Girish were joined by Andrew Katzenstein, the author of a terrific new essay on Wiseman for the New York Review of Books; Genevieve Yue, who interviewed the legendary filmmaker for the Movie how Letter in 2022; and FC’s very own Michael Blair. The group covered the films Central Park (1990), At Berkeley (2013), Basic Training (1971), Aspen (1991), Blind (1986), and more, and reflected on Wiseman’s politics of observation and striking eye for beauty.

The Mains:

• Central Park (3:30)
• At Berkeley (17:30)
• Law and Order + Basic Training (23:10)
• Aspen (35:20)
• Blind (47:31)

Some Desserts:

• The Store (1983)
• A couple (2022)
• Menus-Plaisirs-The Trois Gros (2023)

Frederick Wiseman’s filmography is a testament to his unparalleled ability to capture the essence of American life through a lens that is both observational and deeply humanistic. His films often focus on institutions—from universities to hospitals, prisons, and public parks—and the individuals who inhabit them. This retrospective at Film at Lincoln Center offers a rare opportunity for viewers to delve into Wiseman’s expansive body of work, which spans over five decades.

Wiseman’s approach to filmmaking is characterized by his commitment to documentary realism. He avoids narration and interviews, instead allowing the natural flow of events to unfold on screen. This method has earned him a reputation as one of the most influential documentary filmmakers of our time. As Andrew Katzenstein noted in his essay for the New York Review of Books, “Wiseman’s films are not just about institutions; they are about the people who make up these institutions and the interactions that occur within them.”

One of the standout films discussed during the “Wiseman Potluck” was Central Park (1990). This film captures the daily life of New York City’s most iconic park, showcasing the diverse range of activities and interactions that take place within its boundaries. As Genevieve Yue observed in her interview with Wiseman, “Central Park is a film that speaks to the heart of what it means to be an American, to live in a city, and to share a common space with others.”

Another notable film is At Berkeley (2013), which provides an intimate look at the University of California, Berkeley, during a tumultuous period in its history. The film captures the energy and spirit of the campus, highlighting the debates, protests, and everyday moments that define student life. Michael Blair, a contributor to Movie how, reflected on the film’s impact, saying, “At Berkeley is a film that captures the essence of higher education in America, with all its complexities and contradictions.”

Wiseman’s films often explore the themes of power, authority, and the human condition. Law and Order (1969) and Basic Training (1971) are prime examples of this. These films delve into the inner workings of the criminal justice system and the military, respectively, offering a critical examination of these institutions from the ground up. As Katzenstein pointed out, “Wiseman’s films are not just about institutions; they are about the people who make up these institutions and the interactions that occur within them.”

Despite his extensive body of work, Wiseman continues to push the boundaries of documentary filmmaking. His recent films, such as A Couple (2022) and Menus-Plaisirs-The Trois Gros (2023), showcase his enduring commitment to exploring new themes and subjects. These films offer a fresh perspective on contemporary issues, from personal relationships to the culinary arts, and continue to captivate audiences with their unique vision and depth.

As the retrospective at Film at Lincoln Center continues, audiences have the opportunity to experience Wiseman’s films in a new light. The 4K restorations offer a level of detail and clarity that was previously unavailable, allowing viewers to appreciate the nuances of his filmmaking even more. This retrospective is a testament to Wiseman’s enduring legacy and his continued relevance in the world of documentary filmmaking.

In an era where documentary filmmaking is more diverse and accessible than ever, Wiseman’s work stands out for its timelessness and universality. His films continue to resonate with audiences because they speak to the core of what it means to be human, to live in a society, and to navigate the complexities of modern life. As Wiseman himself once said, “I try to make films that are true to life, that capture the essence of what it means to be human.”

“Wiseman’s films are not just about institutions; they are about the people who make up these institutions and the interactions that occur within them.”

Andrew Katzenstein

The retrospective at Film at Lincoln Center is a must-see for anyone interested in the art of documentary filmmaking. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the work of one of America’s most influential filmmakers and to gain a deeper understanding of the institutions and individuals that shape our society. Whether you are a seasoned film enthusiast or a casual viewer, Wiseman’s films are sure to leave a lasting impression.

As the retrospective continues to tour across the country, from Paris to Los Angeles, it serves as a reminder of the power of cinema to capture and preserve the essence of human experience. Wiseman’s films are a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the importance of observing and documenting the world around us.