Employing a textual analysis within an auteur theory framework, this thesis examines Frederick Wiseman's films At Berkeley (2013), National Gallery (2014), and Ex Libris (2017) and the different ways in which they reflect on the theme of time. The National Gallery, University of California at Berkeley, and the New York Public Library all share a fundamental common purpose: the preservation and circulation of "truth" through time. Whether it be artistic, scientific, or historical truth, these institutions act as cultural and historical safe-keepers for future generations. Wiseman explores these themes related to time and truth by juxtaposing oppositional binary motifs such as time/timelessness, progress/repetition, and reality/fiction. These are also Wiseman's most self-reflexive films, acting as a reflection on his past filmmaking career as well as a meditation on the value these films might have for future generations. Finally, Wiseman's reflection on the nature of time through these films are connected to the ideas of French philosopher Henri Bergson.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:unt.edu/info:ark/67531/metadc1505236 |
| Date | 05 1900 |
| Creators | Wahlert, Blake Jorgensen |
| Contributors | Benshoff, Harry M., Larke-Walsh, George, Levin, Melinda |
| Publisher | University of North Texas |
| Source Sets | University of North Texas |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis or Dissertation |
| Format | iv, 86 pages, Text |
| Rights | Public, Wahlert, Blake Jorgensen, Copyright, Copyright is held by the author, unless otherwise noted. All rights Reserved. |
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