The University of California at Berkeley, the oldest and most prestigious member of a ten campus public education system, is also one of the finest research and teaching facilities in the world. Read more …
The film, At Berkeley, shows the major aspects of university life, its intellectual and social mission, its obligation to the state and to larger ideas of higher education, as well as illustrates how decisions are made and implemented by the administration in collaboration with its various constituencies.
Wiseman's subtle artistry and insatiable curiosity has resulted in yet another masterwork, and it is further proof that he should be regarded as one of the world's most vital filmmakers.
This is particularly useful stuff for anyone who works in higher education, and for documentary makers, but it holds rewards for anyone with the time and the stamina to take it on.
Think a four-hour, narrative-free documentary in which we peep in on board meetings and lectures with unnamed bigwigs at one of America’s most prestigious universities sounds boring? Well you’d be right about that.
At the venerable age of 84, documentary maven Wiseman hasn't lost his touch.
Deceptively modest but slyly inquisitive and comprehensive.
At Berkeley does look offputtingly like a promotional video for the host institution, but everything here is so unworldly and high-minded that the emphasis on ideas is refreshing.
It is as earnest, informative and punishing as a 9am lecture.
General release. Check local listings for show times.