Albert Maysles, David Maysles, Deborah Dickson, Susan Froemke, 1990, 58 min
Film Synopsis
Christo and Jeanne Claude's first grand-scale urban
project, wrapping the oldest bridge in Paris - the same
bridge where Christo courted Jeanne-Claude. A love
story set in the heart of Paris: between a refugee
artist and a French General's daughter; between a
400-year-old bridge and the people of Paris.
Since the days of King Henry IV, the Pont Neuf has
inspired artists. Now it is the focus of the environmental
artists, Christo and his wife Jeanne-Claude - and the
millions of Parisians who watch them create an astounding
architectural poem. Rich in political intrigue and artistic
debate, this film tracks Christo's escape from Bulgaria,
his early years as a struggling artist, his romance with
Jeanne-Claude and the fulfillment of a ten-year obsession:
the wrapping of the Pont Neuf.
A film about the meeting of strangers and changing
perceptions, it is the permanent record of a provocative act -
and the celebration of a bridge that joins. Jack Lang, the
French Minister of Culture, remarks in the film, "Never did
anyone look at the Pont Neuf as much as on the day that it
was hidden. Christo teaches us to see."
Reviews:
The Maysles are the best practitioners of Cinema Verité.”
— Vincent Canby, NEW YORK TIMES
Accolades:
Premiered at Sundance Film Festival
Best Cinematography Award, Sundance Film Festival
Grand Prize, Amsterdam Film Festival 1990
Gold Hugo, Chicago International Film Festival 1990
Special Jury Award, San Francisco Film Festival 1991
Best Media Work, Montreal Film Festival
Red Ribbon, American Film and Video Festival 1991
Cash Award Winner, Sinking Creek Film Festival 1991
Special Commendation, Melbourne International Festival 1991
Certificate of Merit, Bombay International Festival 1991
Certificate of Merit, Cork Festival 1991
Bronze Award, Houston International Festival 1991