Henri Dauman: Looking Up

The documentary film "Henri Dauman: Looking Up," from 2018, is the masterful and deeply emotional celebration of the life of the revered international photographer, Henri Dauman. The film uncovers the extraordinary journey of a man who has been through the darkest depths of human suffering, yet has relentlessly pursued and achieved immense global success through his indomitable spirit and uncompromising artistic vision.

Born in 1933 in Paris, Dauman lived through the horrors of the Holocaust in which he lost his parents, and was thus orphaned at a young age. This traumatic adversity embedded within him a kindle of determination to survive through his astonishing resilience. After the war, Dauman turned to photography as an outlet to deal with the emotional and physical duration of his life under the Nazis.

His life took a significant turn when he immigrated to the United States in search of a new beginning. The film illustrates Dauman's relentless ardor for life as he builds a luminous career in photography in New York. With his camera as his constant companion, he started working on showcasing the various shades of life, from his striking portrayals of everyday life to his awe-inspiring photos of celebrities. His exceptional images have graced the pages of significant magazines and other media outlets, providing significant contributions to journalism.

This documentary provides an intimate glimpse into Dauman's life by not only showcasing his illustrious career but also by allowing viewers to explore his personal life beyond his photography. Through carefully arranged interviews and archival footage, we get to see behind the persona of the famous photographer and learn about his triumphs, challenges, and the remarkable spirit that fuels his journey.

In "Henri Dauman: Looking Up," director Peter Kenneth Jones beautifully curates this biographical film, peeling away the layers of the internationally acclaimed photographer's life, while paying homage to his undeniable genius. We are privy to an exploration of his body of work, including some of his most iconic photographs which defined cultural history. The film’s narrative comprehensively chronicles Dauman’s significant influences, the evolution of his art as a photographer, and the astounding breadth and depth of his oeuvre.

Much of the success of the film can be credited to Dauman's attention-grabbing charisma. His charm and ability to captivate his audience become increasingly evident as he narrates his life story, leaving viewers with a deep sense of awe for the man and his lifetime achievements. Yet, despite his fame, he remains humble and grounded, an admirable trait wonderfully conveyed through the film.

Stylistically, the film also shines in its mixture of both Dauman's own photographs and film clips from different periods of his life. This creates a rich texture and depth to the film, allowing audiences to fully immerse in Dauman’s walk through life. The score complements the magnetic aesthetics, further enhancing the emotional depth and artistic intensity of the storytelling.

Interspersed throughout the film are moments of raw vulnerability, where Dauman openly reflects on his experiences as a Holocaust survivor and how it impacted his life, both personally and professionally. These portions of the film are deeply moving and deliver an unmatched power in painting Dauman as both a survivor and an artist. The documentary takes on a sensitive approach to these elements of Dauman’s past, and it is obvious that care and respect were integral aspects while presenting these aspects of the photographer’s life journey.

"Looking Up" is simultaneously a stirring salute to an undaunted survivor and a tender tribute to a captivating artist. It is a film that highlights the triumph of the human spirit, the magical journey of creativity, and the transformative power of resilience that is inherent in every aspect of Dauman's life.

In conclusion, "Henri Dauman: Looking Up" is not just a documentary about a remarkable photographer. It is an emotional and intimate exploration of a man caught in the throes of history, dealing with unbearable loss and yet, forever surging ahead with passion. It is an inspirational journey that is worth watching for anyone seeking a film with compelling storytelling, incredible photography, and an unforgettable portrait of resilience.