About the film
Cinéma Vérité: Defining the Moment is a 193-minute documentary directed by Peter Wintonick and produced by the National Film Board of Canada. Released in 1999, the English-language film examines cinéma vérité filmmaking and its influence. It considers filmmakers including Jean Rouch, Frederick Wiseman, Barbara Kopple, and Robert Drew, as well as the National Film Board's contribution through films such as Lonely Boy.
The documentary also connects cinéma vérité's influence to the found-footage horror film The Blair Witch Project and includes an interview with video-auteur Floria Sigismondi. Its subject is the documentary tradition itself, making it relevant to viewers interested in filmmaking methods, filmmakers, and the reach of cinéma vérité beyond documentary. The long runtime allows it to cover several people and examples within that subject.
Who it is for
This suits documentary fans, film students, and teachers exploring cinéma vérité and documentary history. It may also interest viewers curious about the method's influence beyond documentary filmmaking.
Worth knowing
- Examines cinéma vérité filmmaking
- Discusses four notable documentarians
- Includes the National Film Board's contribution
- Connects the style to The Blair Witch Project
Before you press play
- 193-minute runtime
- Released in 1999
The short of it
This is a substantial documentary about cinéma vérité, its practitioners, and its influence. Its extended runtime and filmmaking focus make it best suited to viewers ready for a detailed subject-driven film.