Zimbelism

Zimbelism is an intriguing and deeply reflective visual journey into the world of esteemed documentary photographer George S. Zimbel, known for his iconic black and white street photos so rich in humanistic narrative. By employing an assemblage of Zimbel's photographs, interviews, and personal reflections, this 2015 film beautifully transcends the common documentary format, mirroring the sophistication found within Zimbel's monochromatic visuals. Delivered with deft attentiveness, this film serves as both a manifesto of a creative journey and an engaging study of post-war America through the lens of a profoundly observational photographer.

The film opens a dialogue for discussion and appreciation of the nuance of every frame - a testament to Zimbel's ethos that upholds passion for detail and substance over superficiality. Viewers are treated to a generous array of Zimbel's prolific portfolio, including his most famous photograph of Marilyn Monroe during the filming of "The Seven Year Itch". However, it's not just about the "Marilyn Moment"; the film is a rich tapestry of images that have captured everyday people, places, and experiences across several decades.

Jean Francois Gratton and Matt Zimbel, directorial team behind Zimbelism, brilliantly and sensitively craft this film. The narrative is not merely a glaze over George Zimbel's professional journey, but also delves into personal aspects - all packaged in an atmospheric blend of black and white frames, nostalgic music, and tasteful voiceover work from George Zimbel himself.

One of the highlights of Zimbelism is the photographer's discursive musings on the ethics of portrait photography and the rapport between the photographer and the subject. Zimbel's insights, drawn from over six decades of experience, offers a rich and thoughtful exploration of what it means to capture a moment in camera - ethically, artistically, and emotionally. The film makes an attempt to reveal how Zimbel was able to create such evocative and sincere portraits without interfering with the authenticity of the moment.

Being entirely devoid of pretension, Zimbel comes across as a humble and dedicated figure throughout the film. His anecdotes, interspersed with reflections on his life, provide a heartfelt aspect to this artful documentary. Sometimes serious, sometimes tinged with humor, his down-to-earth personality shines through, making for an engaging viewing experience.

A significant portion of the film comprises a virtual journey through Zimbel's vast digital archive. Moving through this archive, Zimbel revisits momentous periods in history and his personal memories attached with them. This enriched storytelling sets the tone for understanding the photographer's work within a broader socio-political and historical context, acting as a timeline of changing eras and attitudes.

Zimbelism also provides insightful glimpses into the changing landscape of photography – from a time when every shot mattered due to the limitations of a film roll, to the current digital age where photos can be taken and discarded at will. The film echoes Zimbel's lamentation over the devaluation of the photographic process and image in contemporary culture.

What makes Zimbelism an engrossing watch is its blend of objective record and personal exploration. They provide not just a look at Zimbel’s brilliant career, but also an effective template for what future generations of artists can learn from his immersive, compassionate, and observational approach to his craft. One doesn't have to be a lover of photography to appreciate this film. It's about respect for the field and the artist's craft – to see beyond what is in front of our eyes, connect the dots, and tell a story.

Overall, Zimbelism succeeds as an intimate portrait of a man committed to his craft and a testament to the power of photography as a narrative tool. Both a critique and a celebration of an era gone by, this film leaves us with an appreciation for simplicity, genuine passion for one's craft, and a potent reminder of an artist's responsibility towards their subjects and themselves. Zimbelism is an incredibly illuminating, intimate, and compelling watch to anyone interested in photography, history, and the human experience as portrayed through the lens of a photographer.