Frederick Wiseman in France

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

In early 2009, Wiseman was on the scene at the titular Parisian cabaret to closely document the preparations of an avant-garde new show called Désirs. While an elevated peep show seemed unlikely terrain for Wiseman, he provides his typically unrivaled examination of the machinations of what makes the production: the audience, the performers, the financiers and the legacy to which they all belong.

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.