For over half a century, Frederick Wiseman has chronicled the everyday workings of the interconnected systems that govern contemporary life. With brief titles and an unadorned approach that belie their vast complexity, Wiseman’s documentaries build their subjects – always institutions rather than individuals – from scratch, stripping away the burden of context so that audiences might see reality anew through his considered perspective. Embedding into matters both public and private, and into affluence and poverty alike, the films are enhanced in conversation with one another, with resonances stretching across time and space. As connections accumulate, viewers might find themselves feeling that they better understand the world in which they live, and even their place within it.

‘THIS IS AMERICA: Frederick Wiseman – 7 Dispatches’ presents seven films from Wiseman’s essential body of work, six in brand new 4k digital presentations. Featuring a diverse selection of both established classics and under-seen deep cuts – ranging in eras, tones, and themes – spring at The Roxie offers a rare opportunity to experience in a theatrical setting the work of one of our greatest living filmmakers and artists. – Arlin Golden.

Co-curated by The Roxie and Arlin Golden.