Another Perfect Day?

Could it be possible to have yet another fabulous day in Cannes? We've visited beautiful cities and countries before, but adding a world premiere film screening to each day on this trip has made this like no other.

We saw Boxing Gym, directed by Frederick Wiseman, now 80 years old, here to premiere his 38th film - can you imagine? If you have one minute and 30 seconds, watch this clip to see how much the audience here respects, admires and applauds him through the credits, then as house lights come on, revealing a standing ovation (that is, when they like the film. I have heard that audiences at Cannes are also known to boo a film if they don't like it, but this was a great film, and a great director, so...)

Applause for Frederick Wiseman from KON on Vimeo.

I was a bit restless for the beginning of the film, waiting for a traditional plotline to develop, or a stronger character development to form. After surrendering to the images and slowly getting to know the characters that frequent this Austin, Texas boxing gym and how they all want to improve themselves, I feel like I know every detail of this place and its people. I know what it smells like in there, and I can still hear the rhythmic back-and-forth of the punching bags and gloves. It was hypnotic. I highly recommend looking for this film when it's released.

Like every day, I'm inspired here, but this film really gives me a kick in the pants to get moving on a few ideas that we've been tossing around for a while. Thank you, Fred Wiseman.