Absolute Wilson (2006/Stage/Theater/New Yorker Films DVD)
Picture: C+ Sound: C+ Extras: C+ Feature: C+
Robert
Wilson is considered a groundbreaking, innovative, creative force who has
changed stage theater forever, but despite the many testimonials in Katharina
Otto-Bernstein’s documentary look at the man and his work in Absolute Wilson (2006) this viewer felt
the 105 minutes did not delve enough into either despite the best, most sincere
efforts to do so.
We learn
the usual about his life, how he had to escape small town living and thinking,
and as he turns out to be gay, has additional barriers to face. Unfortunately, so much is spent telling us
this that a deeper analysis is not made and if this is something about playing
it safe to get his cooperation, than the documentary is a partial failure. Not that there is something dark lurking in
the shadows in some political or sinister way, but the result is somewhat tired
and lopsided, making one wonder what has happened when this finally ends. Maybe a sequel would help, but I guess a
hoped-for book analysis will have to do the trick if available. Too bad this is not richer.
The 1.33
X 1 image is shot on analog NTSC video and looks good for its age, while the
Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo is simple at best.
Extras include extended interview segments, trailers, on camera director
interview, contemporary vignettes about Wilson and his 1965 short film The
House.
- Nicholas Sheffo