Don't Blink - Robert Frank

Don't Blink - Robert Frank is a scintillating cinematic journey, both a documentary and an intriguing biographical film released in 2015. Masterfully directed by Laura Israel, this 82-minute docudrama offers an insightful look into the life, mind, and creative path of one of the most influential figures of contemporary photography and independent filmmaking, Robert Frank.

The movie constructs an intricate narrative around Frank's unconventional perspectives, showcasing the idiosyncrasies that fueled his creative genius. The documentary initially delves into his childhood and early life, filling the storyline with interesting titbits about the man who would grow to become a towering figure in 20th-century photography.

As we journey through the movie, we witness glimpses of who Frank was outside his professional realm, a man ceaselessly captivated with the world around him. There's a certain intimate summit of art and personal life here, through which the audience experiences a portion of Frank's complicated relationship with his chosen medium. The title itself comes from Frank’s fundamental philosophy—his belief in capturing authenticity, in searing moments of truth onto film in raw, unfiltered ways.

A significant focus is also Frank's groundbreaking book, "The Americans," which is widely regarded as a seminal work in the history of photography. The movie reveals the taking of iconic pictures, the artistic battles Frank fought against traditional trends, and how he managed to render his indomitable mark on the world of photography. His purpose wasn't just to document but to question, explore the facets of American society that others frequently overlook.

The movie doesn't solely revolve around Frank's photographic journey. It also turns attention to his adventures in the world of independent filmmaking. Known for his raw, realist films, Frank introduced an alternative perspective to movies, pushing against the glossy commercialism of Hollywood.

Among other subjects, we see how he progressed from being a photographer to a cinematographer, from still images to moving ones, and how he broached different mediums, including text, video, and sound. This diverse range of artistic exploration solidifies Frank's international reputation as a lifelong innovator.

Throughout the movie, we are introduced to several other acclaimed figures who had pivotal roles in Robert Frank's life. Included among them are Frank's closest ally and wife, June Leaf, and his friend and fellow artist, Sid Kaplan. Their insights, combined with archival materials and Frank's candid narration, imbue the documentary with a rich authenticity, making it a one-of-a-kind viewing experience.

It's crucial to note, however, that 'Don't Blink – Robert Frank' is not a conventional biography. Unlike traditional biopics, this film doesn't roll forward chronologically; instead, it adopts an impressionistic, fragmented narrative style, reflective of Frank's own artistic ideologies. Throughout the film, poignant montages of Frank's works, detailed interviews, behind-the-scenes shots, and segments from Frank's films and videos are stitched together to create a dynamic, engrossing chronicle of the artist's life and career.

'Don't Blink – Robert Frank' is, thus, more than a biographical documentary about a renowned photographer and filmmaker. It is an introspective exploration into the pulsating heart of creativity, the relentless quest to capture truth, and the tireless experimentation essential in any form of art. The film takes the viewers on a compelling journey into the mind of a visionary, giving a profound look at how Frank saw the world – a world filled with beauty, absurdity, hardship, and irony.

In the end, 'Don't Blink – Robert Frank' wouldn't merely leave you more informed about Robert Frank; it's a movie designed to inspire, to reignite the creative spark within us all. Even those unfamiliar with Frank's works will find themselves pulled into the vibrant current of his creative universe—a testament to the universal and enduring appeal of his profoundly moving and groundbreaking work.