Thursday, June 18, 2026
Dir. Frederick Wiseman, 2011, 134 min, DCP
In early 2009, Wiseman was on the scene at the titular Parisian cabaret as a new avant-garde show called Désirs began rehearsals, closely documenting the preparations of Philippe Decouflé’s production. While an elevated peep show seemed unlikely terrain for Wiseman, he has explained: “I’m very interested in fantasies, which are numerous and varied at Crazy: the fantasies of the public who come to see the show, the dancers who agree to perform nearly nude, the dreams of the shareholders who want to make money, and those of the director who has to show what Desire means.”
Cinema at L’Alliance New York is made possible by the generous support of BNP Paribas, Air France and Sofitel.
Friday, July 24, 2026
For his truly fitting swan song, Wiseman focuses his camera on the Troisgrois family, who for generations have run three restaurants in central France. The result is a highly detailed look at a bustling yet civilized and creative environment, the owners never tiring in the desire for continued greatness.
Friday, May 8, 2026
In memoriam of Frederick Wiseman, the great American filmmaker and part-time Paris resident, we present three of his cinematic portraits of French culture. First up, the extraordinary La Danse: “The film follows the rehearsals and performances of seven ballets […] and the coordinated and collaborative work of choreographers, ballet masters, dancers, musicians, and costume, set, and lighting designers.” — Zipporah Films
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