Top Documentaries of 1958
Essential Viewing from a Landmark Year in Film
The year 1958 marked a significant period in the history of documentary filmmaking. As the film industry continued to evolve, documentaries played a crucial role in capturing real-life stories and events. These non-fiction films provided audiences with unique perspectives on various subjects, from social issues to cultural phenomena.
Some of the most impactful documentaries of 1958 left a lasting impression on viewers and critics alike. These films showcased innovative storytelling techniques and explored diverse topics, contributing to the advancement of the documentary genre. While not as widely recognized as feature films from the same year, the documentaries of 1958 offer valuable insights into the social, political, and cultural landscape of the time.
1) 'The Human Condition' by Masaki Kobayashi (1959-1961)
'The Human Condition' is a monumental trilogy of Japanese war drama films directed by Masaki Kobayashi. Based on Junpei Gomikawa's six-volume novel, the series spans over nine hours in total.
The trilogy follows Kaji, a pacifist and socialist played by Tatsuya Nakadai, as he navigates the moral complexities of wartime Japan. Each film explores different aspects of Kaji's journey.
The first installment, 'No Greater Love,' released in 1959, sets the stage for Kaji's ethical struggles. It depicts his experiences managing a labor camp in Japanese-occupied Manchuria.
'Road to Eternity,' also from 1959, continues Kaji's story as he is conscripted into the Imperial Japanese Army. The film examines the harsh realities of military life.
The final part, 'A Soldier's Prayer' (1961), portrays Kaji's desperate attempt to survive and return home in the chaotic aftermath of Japan's defeat.
Kobayashi's trilogy is renowned for its unflinching portrayal of wartime atrocities and its exploration of human morality under extreme conditions.
More information on 'The Human Condition' trilogy
2) 'Vertigo' by Alfred Hitchcock (1958)
'Vertigo' is a psychological thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock. The film stars James Stewart as John "Scottie" Ferguson, a former detective with acrophobia, and Kim Novak in a dual role as Madeleine Elster and Judy Barton.
The plot follows Scottie as he becomes obsessed with a woman he is hired to follow. His fear of heights and vertigo play a crucial role in the unfolding events, leading to a complex narrative of deception and psychological manipulation.
Hitchcock's masterful direction and use of innovative camera techniques, such as the dolly zoom, create a sense of disorientation that mirrors the protagonist's mental state. The film's vivid color palette and Bernard Herrmann's haunting score contribute to its dreamlike atmosphere.
While initially receiving mixed reviews, 'Vertigo' has since been recognized as one of Hitchcock's greatest works. In 2012, it was voted the greatest film of all time in the British Film Institute's Sight & Sound poll, surpassing 'Citizen Kane'.
'Vertigo' explores themes of obsession, identity, and the male gaze, offering a complex portrayal of human psychology. Its influence can be seen in numerous subsequent films and continues to be studied by film scholars today.
3) 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' by Richard Brooks (1958)
Richard Brooks directed this powerful adaptation of Tennessee Williams' Pulitzer Prize-winning play. The film stars Elizabeth Taylor and Paul Newman as a troubled married couple grappling with family tensions and personal struggles.
Set in Mississippi, the story explores themes of greed, sexuality, and familial conflict. Taylor delivers a captivating performance as Maggie "the Cat," while Newman portrays the alcoholic ex-football player Brick.
Burl Ives reprises his stage role as Big Daddy, the family patriarch facing a terminal illness. The film's exploration of complex relationships and societal expectations resonated with audiences and critics alike.
'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Newman. It showcases the talents of its stellar cast and Brooks' skilled direction in bringing Williams' work to the screen.
The film's examination of repressed desires and family dynamics continues to be praised for its depth and performances. It remains a classic of 1950s American cinema, demonstrating the power of adapting stage plays for the big screen.
4) 'A Night to Remember' by Roy Ward Baker
'A Night to Remember' (1958) is a British docudrama directed by Roy Ward Baker. The film meticulously recounts the final hours of the RMS Titanic's maiden voyage.
Based on Walter Lord's 1955 book, the movie presents a detailed and factual account of the ship's collision with an iceberg and subsequent sinking. It stars Kenneth More as Second Officer Charles Lightoller.
The film is notable for its attention to historical accuracy and realistic portrayal of the disaster. It eschews melodrama in favor of a straightforward narrative approach.
'A Night to Remember' features an ensemble cast and focuses on various passengers and crew members. This approach provides a comprehensive view of the events from multiple perspectives.
The film's production design and special effects were groundbreaking for its time. It effectively recreates the grandeur of the Titanic and the chaos of its sinking.
Critical reception was positive, with many praising its historical authenticity and powerful storytelling. The film remains a respected portrayal of the Titanic disaster.
5) 'Ashes and Diamonds' by Andrzej Wajda (1958)
'Ashes and Diamonds' is a Polish drama film directed by Andrzej Wajda. Based on a novel by Jerzy Andrzejewski, it tells the story of a former resistance fighter in post-World War II Poland.
The film explores the moral dilemma faced by the protagonist, who must assassinate a Communist official. Set on the last day of the war, it depicts the complex political landscape of Poland at that time.
Wajda's masterful direction and stunning black-and-white cinematography elevate 'Ashes and Diamonds' to a classic of Polish cinema. The film features a charismatic lead performance that brings depth to the central character's internal struggle.
As the final installment in Wajda's war trilogy, 'Ashes and Diamonds' offers a powerful commentary on Poland's fate in the aftermath of World War II. Its themes of loyalty, duty, and personal conflict resonate beyond its historical context.
The film's visual style and symbolism contribute to its enduring impact on world cinema. It remains a significant work that captures a pivotal moment in Polish history through a deeply personal narrative.
6) 'Touch of Evil' by Orson Welles (1958)
'Touch of Evil' is a noir masterpiece directed by Orson Welles. The film stars Charlton Heston as a Mexican narcotics agent and Janet Leigh as his American wife.
Set in a border town, the story follows the investigation of a car bombing. Welles himself portrays the corrupt police captain Hank Quinlan, a character both repulsive and captivating.
The film's opening sequence, a single continuous shot lasting over three minutes, is considered one of the most impressive in cinema history. It showcases Welles' innovative filmmaking techniques.
Despite initial lukewarm reception, 'Touch of Evil' has since been recognized as one of the greatest noir films ever made. Its exploration of corruption, morality, and power dynamics remains relevant today.
The film's atmospheric cinematography and complex characters contribute to its enduring appeal. It was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry in 1993 for its cultural and artistic significance.
7) 'The Horse's Mouth' by Ronald Neame (1958)
'The Horse's Mouth' is a British comedy-drama film directed by Ronald Neame. The movie stars Alec Guinness in a tour-de-force performance as Gulley Jimson, an eccentric and ill-behaved painter.
Guinness not only acted in the film but also wrote the screenplay, adapting it from Joyce Cary's 1944 novel of the same name. His portrayal of the lovably scruffy artist has become one of cinema's most memorable comic figures.
The film follows Jimson's relentless pursuit of the perfect canvas for his artistic vision. His determination leads him into various misadventures and conflicts with others.
Shot in vibrant Technicolor, 'The Horse's Mouth' showcases Jimson's artistic world in rich visual detail. The film's production was helmed by John Bryan and Ronald Neame.
While primarily known for its comedic elements, the film also offers poignant dramatic moments. It explores themes of artistic obsession and the challenges of realizing one's creative vision.
8) 'The Hidden Fortress' by Akira Kurosawa (1958)
'The Hidden Fortress' is a Japanese adventure film directed by the renowned Akira Kurosawa. The movie blends elements of action, comedy, and drama to create a compelling narrative.
Set in feudal Japan, the story follows two peasants who become entangled in a plot to transport a princess and her clan's treasure across enemy territory. Toshiro Mifune stars as the general tasked with protecting the princess.
The film's innovative storytelling technique, which presents events from the perspective of minor characters, influenced many future filmmakers. George Lucas cited 'The Hidden Fortress' as a significant inspiration for 'Star Wars'.
Kurosawa's masterful direction and Eiji Tsuburaya's special effects contribute to the film's visual appeal. The cinematography captures the beauty of the Japanese landscape while enhancing the action sequences.
'The Hidden Fortress' showcases Kurosawa's ability to balance entertainment with artistic merit. It remains a beloved entry in his filmography and a testament to his impact on world cinema.
More information on 'The Hidden Fortress'
9) 'Mon Oncle' by Jacques Tati (1958)
Jacques Tati's 'Mon Oncle' is a vibrant comedy that blends slapstick humor with social commentary. The film follows Monsieur Hulot, Tati's iconic character, as he navigates the modern world of his sister's family.
'Mon Oncle' marks Tati's first foray into color filmmaking. The director uses this new palette to create a stark contrast between the old-fashioned charm of Hulot's neighborhood and the sterile modernity of his sister's home.
The film's humor stems from Hulot's interactions with technology and his inability to fit into the mechanized lifestyle of his relatives. Tati's masterful physical comedy shines through in every scene.
'Mon Oncle' received critical acclaim, winning the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It also earned a Special Prize at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival.
More information on 'Mon Oncle'
10) 'South Pacific' by Joshua Logan (1958)
'South Pacific' is a musical film directed by Joshua Logan, based on the Rodgers and Hammerstein stage musical of the same name. The movie stars Rossano Brazzi and Mitzi Gaynor in lead roles.
Set during World War II, the film tells the story of a romance between a U.S. Navy nurse and a French plantation owner on a South Pacific island. It also explores themes of racial prejudice and wartime relationships.
The film features memorable songs like "Some Enchanted Evening" and "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair". Its soundtrack became a bestseller, contributing to the movie's popularity.
'South Pacific' was notable for its use of color filters in certain scenes, creating a distinctive visual style. This artistic choice aimed to enhance the emotional atmosphere of key moments.
The movie was a commercial success and received critical acclaim. It won an Academy Award for Best Sound and was nominated in two other categories.
Historical Context
The year 1958 marked a pivotal time for documentary filmmaking, influenced by technological advancements and shifting social dynamics. Documentary creators grappled with new storytelling techniques while addressing pressing issues of the era.
The Landscape of Documentary Filmmaking in 1958
1958 saw documentarians experimenting with innovative approaches. Cinéma vérité began to emerge, emphasizing unscripted footage and natural interactions. Filmmakers like Robert Drew and Richard Leacock pioneered lightweight 16mm cameras and portable sound equipment, enabling more intimate and spontaneous captures.
Traditional expository documentaries remained prevalent, often focusing on historical events or social issues. Educational and industrial films also constituted a significant portion of non-fiction productions. Government agencies and corporations frequently commissioned these works for training or promotional purposes.
Television networks increased their documentary output, bringing current affairs and investigative journalism to wider audiences. This medium provided new opportunities for documentarians to reach viewers directly in their homes.
Societal Influences on the Cinema
The Cold War heavily influenced documentary themes in 1958. Films often addressed nuclear tensions, the space race, and ideological conflicts between capitalism and communism. Many documentaries sought to educate audiences about international affairs and promote understanding between nations.
Social movements gained momentum, inspiring filmmakers to explore civil rights, labor issues, and women's roles in society. These documentaries aimed to raise awareness and provoke discussion about pressing social concerns.
Cultural shifts in art, music, and literature also found expression in documentary films. Avant-garde filmmakers like Bruce Conner experimented with found footage and non-linear narratives, challenging traditional documentary forms.
Scientific advancements and environmental concerns began to feature more prominently in documentaries, reflecting growing public interest in these areas.
Notable Filmmakers
Several pioneering documentary filmmakers emerged in 1958, pushing the boundaries of the genre. Their innovative techniques and storytelling approaches left a lasting impact on future generations of documentarians.
Innovative Techniques Introduced
Louis Malle's "The Silent World" utilized groundbreaking underwater cinematography, capturing never-before-seen marine life footage. Robert Drew and Richard Leacock developed lightweight 16mm cameras and portable sound recording equipment, enabling a more intimate, observational style. This "direct cinema" approach allowed for unprecedented access to subjects and events.
Frederick Wiseman experimented with long, uninterrupted takes and minimal narration in his early works, letting raw footage speak for itself. D.A. Pennebaker pioneered the use of handheld cameras for a more immersive viewing experience.
Impact on Future Generations
These filmmakers' innovations paved the way for modern documentary techniques. The observational style of Drew and Leacock influenced countless documentarians, including the Maysles brothers and Barbara Kopple.
Wiseman's unobtrusive approach inspired filmmakers to explore complex social issues without heavy-handed narration. Pennebaker's dynamic camera work became a hallmark of rock documentaries and concert films.
Malle's underwater cinematography techniques were adopted and refined in nature documentaries, leading to stunning series like "Blue Planet" decades later.
