Finding Vivian Maier

Sundance Selects | Release Date: March 28, 2014

8.0	USER SCORE Generally favorable reviews based on 27 Ratings

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User Reviews

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TheDRauchNov 2, 2014

An esoteric and informative doc, plays out like an unfolding mystery. The filmmaker's ambivalence in regards to showing Maier's very personal and purposefully shielded work makes for interesting discussion, though this topic isn't delved intoAn esoteric and informative doc, plays out like an unfolding mystery. The filmmaker's ambivalence in regards to showing Maier's very personal and purposefully shielded work makes for interesting discussion, though this topic isn't delved into as deeply or passionately as we'd like. The focus of the film is more on the life and work of Vivian Maier, who proves to be an interesting enough subject to keep our attention for an agreeably brief running time. Worth a watch, maybe once.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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ariel84Aug 30, 2014

vivian maier's photography is stunning. for that alone, watch the film. the stories told about her as a nanny are intriguing. her employers (there were lots-how she went from family to family, making deep impressions on each, is remarkable.vivian maier's photography is stunning. for that alone, watch the film. the stories told about her as a nanny are intriguing. her employers (there were lots-how she went from family to family, making deep impressions on each, is remarkable. as a nanny myself, i can't imagine working with so many) all remember her very vividly. the film would've been far stronger if maloof had kept himself out of it and simply narrated. he's a serious artist and collector, but his presence makes the film seem sometimes goofy and light. neither quality describes maier's work.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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VinceMApr 16, 2014

This is a fascinating documentary about the life and work of this recluse artist. Ms. Maier indeed suffered from mental health issues which became apparent as her life is revealed, both by her work and by the people who thought they knew herThis is a fascinating documentary about the life and work of this recluse artist. Ms. Maier indeed suffered from mental health issues which became apparent as her life is revealed, both by her work and by the people who thought they knew her although no one really did. She was probably abused as a child but there was no proof despite the extensive investigation into her past, what little could be found. It's follows like a well scripted mystery how this unattached spinster came to make the briefest contact with ordinary people she photographed so profusely. She also had a cruel side which was revealed by several of the now adult children she worked with as a nanny. The interviews are candid and honest as the story unfolds. This film, which includes many of her insightful and sensitive photos which were her life work, is truly worth seeing.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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wisertimeMay 14, 2014

Very enjoyable as I am a photographer myself, but honestly the story is intriguing enough and well shot that you need not be a photobug to actually enjoy it. I kinda wish it had been longer and even more in depth. It definitely left youVery enjoyable as I am a photographer myself, but honestly the story is intriguing enough and well shot that you need not be a photobug to actually enjoy it. I kinda wish it had been longer and even more in depth. It definitely left you wanting to know more...asking more questions about why this woman kept her work a secret, what problems she may have had etc. I went into this with tempered expectations and enjoyed it more than anticipated. Her photos speak for themselves.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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Brent_MarchantMay 23, 2014

An engaging documentary about an enigmatic recluse -- and an incredible talent -- whose works weren't discovered until after her passing. The film features a montage of beautiful images and a mystery story that's as compelling as any fictional film.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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31i8lotisMar 23, 2016

street photography is very challenging; Maier could approach the subject, frame the shot and shoot at the correct moment to capture the art . she used old school cameras that required manual exposer and manual focusing the subject. if youstreet photography is very challenging; Maier could approach the subject, frame the shot and shoot at the correct moment to capture the art . she used old school cameras that required manual exposer and manual focusing the subject. if you are a photographer, you will love this documentary.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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