Finding Vivian Maier is a documentary film that explores the life and work of the eponymous street photographer, whose incredible talent was only discovered after her death. The film is directed by John Maloof, who stumbled upon thousands of Maier's photographs and negatives at an auction house in Chicago in 2007. Intrigued by the quality of the images, Maloof purchased the collection and began to investigate the mystery of the reclusive woman behind the lens.
Through a combination of interviews with people who knew Maier, archival footage, and Maloof's own explorations, the film pieces together a fascinating portrait of a fiercely independent and enigmatic artist. Maier worked as a nanny and caretaker for most of her life, and never showed her photos to anyone. Yet her images, taken on the streets of New York and Chicago, are a haunting testament to her creative vision and the changing face of America in the mid-twentieth century.
As the film unfolds, we see Maier's story come to life through her photographs and personal belongings, including stacks of old newspapers, letters, and clothing. We also hear from the people who knew her, including the families she worked for, former colleagues, and strangers who crossed her path. Through these intimate accounts, we see Maier as a complex and sometimes contradictory figure, both deeply private and fiercely passionate about her art.
The film also captures the excitement and controversy surrounding Maier's sudden rise to fame in the art world, as critics debate the meaning and value of her work. Some see her as a brilliant and long-overlooked genius, while others question whether her work is truly groundbreaking or simply a product of her time and place.
Overall, Finding Vivian Maier is a captivating and thought-provoking film that explores the life and art of an extraordinary and mysterious woman. It's a journey that is both inspiring and heart-breaking, as we come to know Maier and her work, and mourn the loss of a great artist who never received the recognition she deserved during her lifetime.
