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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.
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