Anthem

Saw it at a film festival when it came out in 1997. As has been reported, yes, it is sloppy and at times self-centered. But unapologetically so. Yes, at times it is difficult to watch, in the sense that a real road trip is also difficult to endure. Yes, it unfolds in chronological order, just like a road trip. It is also self-deprecating. Haven't seen it in 14 years, but I remember very clearly Robert Redford asking "Why do you have two cameras?" (set up three feet apart, same angle.) Interviewers: "So we can cut between the shots." (pause.) Redford: "...Got it." And George McGovern, prior to his interview: "Is this set-up okay?" (meaning, a corner of his office, overlooking Washington DC, with law books and an American flag.) Interviewers: "Huh?" They didn't care about anything except getting the job done, the best way they could. I appreciated the verite, behind-the-scenes feel, and found the film immensely inspiring. Also bought the companion hard cover book.