Tell Them Who You Are radiates dignity, the unusual warmth given off by the frustration of trying to know someone.
Tell Them Who You Are (2005)
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted: 62
Fresh: 54
Rotten:8
Average Rating: 7.5/10
Consensus: The dysfunctional interaction between director and subject is fascinating, poignant, and revealing of both men and of father-son relationships in general.
Rated: R [See Full Rating] for language and some sexual images
Runtime: 1 hr 35 mins
Genre: Education/General Interest
Theatrical Release:May 20, 2005 Limited
Synopsis: The work of acclaimed cinematographer Haskell Wexler has delighted cinema-goers for the greater part of his astonishing life. Two Oscars, for WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOLF and BOUND FOR GLORY, are... The work of acclaimed cinematographer Haskell Wexler has delighted cinema-goers for the greater part of his astonishing life. Two Oscars, for WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOLF and BOUND FOR GLORY, are just the tip of the iceberg, for Haskell has worked with many of the all-time greats in the business. Some of these figures--most notably, Milos Foreman and George Lucas--are featured in this documentary, which is directed by his son, Mark Wexler. Although most are generous with their praise, it becomes clear that Haskell is a rambunctious, obstinate character whose interactions with Mark during the filmmaking process offer the greatest insight into his personality. Despite being 82-years-old at the time of shooting, Haskell still retains all his critical faculties, and loves to berate his son, whose right-wing political leanings are a constant source of chagrin for his liberal father. Mark's agility as a director allows him to steer the film through wildly different subject matter, such as Haskell's work as a director on MEDIUM COOL; his firing from prominent features such as ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST (at the behest of the FBI according to Haskell--a claim that is refuted by everyone else involved); and Mark's own boisterous relationship with his dad. As endlessly fascinating anecdotes pour from the screen, this father and son laugh, cry, argue, and fight, then indulge in bizarre, strained attempts at bonding which include going on a peace protest together, interviewing Jane Fonda and Julia Roberts, and pointing cameras at one other. An unflinching, sometimes painfully personal film, TELL THEM WHO YOU ARE is an anomalous foray into the world of documentary filmmaking. [More]
Starring: Haskell Wexler, Mark Wexler, Milos Forman, George Lucas
Starring: Haskell Wexler, Mark Wexler, Milos Forman, George Lucas, Jane Fonda, Julia Roberts, Michael Douglas, Conrad Hall, Dennis Hopper
Director: Mark Wexler
Director: Mark Wexler
Producer: Mark Wexler
Studio: ThinkFilm
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Reviews for Tell Them Who You Are
It works as a portrait of a father-son relationship that’s awkward, volatile, uneven and always painfully real.
In the end this is a great movie about a filmmaker. It's also a great movie about fathers and sons.
A desperately sad look at two men whose determination to rebel against their heritage and succeed in their artform has rendered them unable to communicate. Compelling stuff, though.
With dad calling junior's filmmaking skills into question at every turn, this is a fascinating blend of fact and friction.
What we really get from son Mark's unusual take is a sterling movie about fathers (especially famous fathers) and offspring.
The subject is a fascinating one, and the film is worth watching just to see how impressive Wexler's career has been.
More than a Hollywood profile, it becomes a filmmaker's effort to figure out how he relates, personally and professionally, to his famous father.
Unlike countless other bad-dad pictures, Tell Them moves gradually and elegantly toward a reconciliation that isn't too maudlin or forced.
Latest News for Tell Them Who You Are
October 05, 2005:
Summer Tomatometer Wrap-up #3: The Best of the Limited Releases
In the hot summer months, everyone's looking for a way to cool down. This summer, movie audiences decided one of the best places to beat the heat was in the barren,... More...
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