While the documentary genre has grown increasingly popular over the past few years, with filmmakers imbuing their projects with the energy and feel of feature films, veteran Frederick Wiseman has maintained the approach he established all the way back in the 1960s. Choosing to observe rather than intrude, for over five decades, Wiseman has provided unique insights into a variety of subject matter ranging from psychiatric hospitals to burlesque clubs to Central Park and more. But for this next effort, the filmmaker is going back to school…
Having helmed two “High School” movies — the first in 1968, the second in 1994 — the 83 year-old direct has now graduated to “At Berkeley.” Running 244-minutes long, the film is reflective look at the public university, centering on the task of maintaining its academic excellence, profiling its diverse student body and its future as the school faces funding cuts from the state of California. Students, faculty, administrators, alumni and more all get their time in this documentary which constructs a compelling look at one of California, and the country’s, finest institutions. And it’s a must-see endeavor.
Our man at the Venice Film Festival was truly taken with the film calling it “one of [Wiseman’s] best pieces of work to date” and “a state-of-the-nation masterwork” and it’s coming soon to a theater near you. “At Berkeley”opens November 8th in New York City, November 15th in Los Angeles and will roll out from there throughout November and December. Watch the trailer below.