VICE Guide to Film

VICE Guide to Film, which debuted in 2016 on Viceland, is a critically-acclaimed television series that takes viewers on an immersive journey into the world of cinema, but not in the ordinary way. This unique series, instead of focusing on the films themselves, shines a spotlight on the individual directors who are behind some of the most iconic movies of our time. With in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, it offers cinematic aficionados a front row seat into the minds and creative processes of these visionary filmmakers.

The series delves into the techniques, philosophies and motivations of some of the greatest storytellers around, featuring a variety of directors from different generations, genres and nationalities. Notably, each episode is dedicated to one specific director, providing viewers the chance to know more about the person behind the camera. These filmmakers aren't just those who have defined a generation but are also those adept at reflecting the zeitgeist through their creations. With a blend of established directors and emerging talents, the show ensures to map the landscape and evolution of contemporary cinema.

In these profiles of major filmmakers, VICE Guide to Film seeks to crack open the creative mind and offer key insights into the directing process from concept to the big screen. It provides an inside look at how these directors construct a film story, the elements that they consider important in their storytelling, and how disparate experiences and influences come to life on film. What makes VICE Guide to Film unique is that it not only features interviews where directors discuss their works in detail, but also provides viewers with exclusive behind-the-scenes content. It showcases the hard work, tenacity, and myriad challenges faced by these storytellers in creating their final products.

Moreover, special attention is paid to the director's idiosyncrasies, peculiar styles, and trademark motifs, thereby offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of their art and their individualistic approach to storytelling. Whether it's the labyrinthine narratives of a genre-bending auteur or the socially aware dramas of a politically-charged filmmaker, viewers will get to see it all, making this show a treasure trove for cinephiles and casual viewers alike.

In VICE Guide to Film, each episode is thoughtfully curated to spotlight the chosen director's entire career. This holistic view allows cinema enthusiasts to not only appreciate the director's signature and path-breaking works but also witness their evolution as a storyteller. Rather than linearly listing down their works or relying heavily on filmography, the series judiciously uses clips and scenes from the director's works to substantiate and exemplify what's being discussed. More than a systematic analysis, this results in an engaging, conversational narrative that grapples with the essence of the director's vision and style.

The series is also narrated by several big names of the industry, with each episode featuring a different narrator. This lends an extra edge to the program as these voices belong to well-established actors who have either worked with the featured directors or have in-depth knowledge of their work. With each narrative voice bringing a unique energy and perspective to the table, there's an added layer of authenticity and charm to each episode's storytelling.

To the avid filmgoer or the novice film student, VICE Guide to Film serves as a comprehensive crash course on auteur theory, film philosophy, and the practice of filmmaking. To the casual viewer, it is an entertaining and enlightening trip into the minds of those who have mastered the art of visual storytelling.

In its essence, VICE Guide to Film breaks down the highbrow facade often associated with 'auteur cinema' and offers a relatable and accessible look into the world of filmmaking. It reminds viewers that behind each great film is a person with a distinctly personal vision, an individual who is as human and as complex as the stories they portray on screen. In this intimate portrayal of directors, their triumphs and struggles, their processes and passions, the series not only explores the art of cinema, but also the art of storytelling, not merely as a medium but also as a reflection of our collective human experience.