The Making of Gosford Park

I saw the 19.52 version of this documentary, which is on the Australian DVD version of Gosford Park. As well as the actors describing their characters, we also see Robert Altman directing on the set, though nothing is held for too long. Altman's legendary overlapping dialogue is mentioned, allowing the actors to improvise and ad-lib, with Altman confessing that he feels the greatest moments in his films are both un-scripted and un-directed.

A standard "Making of" documentary, interesting in because "Gosford Park" is directed by Robert Altman and features so many strong performers. Some of the players are interviewed; and, as you might expect, they have a firm grasp of their characters. There couldn't have been much need for the actors to stop and ask Mr. Altman, "What's my motivation?" You can see why Altman was an actor's favorite director. His willingness to collaborate, overlapping dialogue, and "mistakes" are discussed. It was nice to see Bob Balaban share my view of Altman as a motion picture Rembrandt.

The documentary ends on a false note, as Altman seems to accept his "Academy Award" as "Best Director" for "Gosford Park" - but, Altman's "Golden Globe" acceptance speech is merely edited in. Certainly, during the production of this documentary, there was reason to anticipate multiple "Park" wins. Writer Julian Fellowes was the lone winner, of a "Best Screenplay" award for his exemplary work. Altman did win an Oscar, before he died, in 2006, "For a career that has repeatedly reinvented the art form and inspired filmmakers and audiences alike." That was nicely put.

*** The Making of Gosford Park (6/25/02) Danny Miller ~ Robert Altman, Julian Fellowes, Bob Balaban