Altman

Altman is a captivating 2014 documentary film that offers an intimate, multi-faceted portrait of the life and works of the influential American film director, Robert Altman. Directed by Ron Mann, the film features many bold-faced names from the film industry, including Michael Murphy and Kathryn Reed, who were part and parcel of Altman's cinematic universe.

Robert Altman, a maverick who changed the landscape of American cinema in the 1970s with his avante-garde style, is brought back to life in this documentary. His films, known for their satirical and highly stylized portrayal of society, are renowned for their ensemble casts and innovative sound designs. The movie Altman is crafted as a tribute to this legendary director who painted human stories on the canvas of cinema with his idiosyncratic style.

The documentary follows the journey of Altman's life and career through rare interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, film clips, and testimonials from his collaborators and family. Altman's wife, Kathryn Reed, appears prominently in the film, sharing personal anecdotes and insights into his life and work.

A unique aspect of the documentary is its structure. Instead of a strictly linear, chronological account of Altman's life, the film is structured around themes that were central to his work - rebellion, politics, love, etc. Movie clips are woven seamlessly into these thematic segments to juxtapose his filmography with his life and influences, to portray Robert Altman not just as a director, but as an artist, an observer, and a human being.

Despite his critical success and influence in Hollywood, the film also depicts Altman's struggles and conflicts with the studio system. One of the movie's highlights is the exploration of Altman's start in industrial films and television, providing context for the development of his distinct style.

Altman features interviews with actors and other collaborators who shed light on the unique working style of the director. His collaborators recall Altman's innovative and often unconventional approach to storytelling, such as the use of overlapping dialogue and a documentary-like style. The documentary also explores his legacy and the influence of his technique on subsequent generations of filmmakers.

On the personal side, the movie offers a glimpse into Altman's private life, his experiences, and his relationships. Kathryn Reed, his wife and longtime collaborator, offers precious insight into his personal life and their marriage, providing a touching portrayal of the man behind the camera.

While exploring his cinematic legacy, Altman also provokes deeper questions about the nature of creativity, the role of the artist, and the power of cinema. One of the key messages underpinning the narrative is Altman's steadfast conviction to stay true to his vision, regardless of commercial pressures or trends. This message is enforced through interviews with actors who worked under his direction and revere him not only for his technical prowess but also for his courage in making groundbreaking films that resonated with the audience.

The film reveals Altman as a multi-faceted personality - the maverick director, the loving husband, the doting father, and the indefatigable artist. Despite his death in 2006, his presence looms large in the documentary, brought vividly back to life through anecdotes, insights, and the movies he left behind.

One piece of praise for Altman is its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia. It takes viewers back to the golden age of the 70s Hollywood scene when directors like Altman were pushing cinematic boundaries and changing the face of American cinema.

In summary, Altman is a must-watch not only for fans of Robert Altman's movies but also for students of cinema and anyone interested in understanding the essence of a true artist. The documentary serves as a powerful retrospective on an iconic filmmaker's life, providing an insightful and heart-touching examination of Altman's body of work and his impact on film history. It's a vivid portrait of a brilliant filmmaker who dared to be different and succeeded in imprinting his unique signature in the annals of world cinema. Altman is thus an enriching cinematic experience that pays tribute to a real visionary of the silver screen.