Gregory Crewdson: Brief Encounters

Ben Shapiro's lovingly crafted documentary chronicles the meticulous creative process of photographer and Yale University professor Gregory Crewdson, whose images are the result of carefully staged events requiring large behind-the-scenes crews and sophisticated post-production techniques. Although Crewdson's subject is, broadly speaking, small-town American life (especially in economically depressed areas), the pictures themselves carry the inspiration of cinema in their subtle lighting effects and perspective. Crewdson's photographs resemble large-scale paintings, luminous works that capture the moments of quiet desperation filling the lives of ordinary people. Shapiro follows Crewdson as he finishes his Beneath the Roses series of 50 photos, an eight-year-long project that concludes with an elaborate outdoor shot of a nearly deserted snow-swept street (a photo that required the cooperation of municipal staff, much to the consternation of the snowplow driver). Brief Encounters interweaves numerous excerpts from interviews of the artist with archival home movies and stills, serving up an illustrated autobiography in which Crewdson locates the source of his passion in both his upbringing and his love of cinematic storytelling. Commentary from appreciative acquaintances, such as novelist Russell Banks, adds insight to this engaging portrait of the artist. DVD extras include deleted scenes, additional interview segments, and a Los Angeles Q&A with Crewdson, Shapiro, and writer Jonathan Lethem. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)