American Masters

1989 NR 1h 29m 7.1

No matter where, what, or whom he was shooting, W. Eugene Smith drove himself relentlessly to create evocative portraits that revealed the essence of his subjects in a way that touched the emotions.

The war in the South Pacific, a country doctor in Colorado, victims of industrial pollution in a Japanese village -- all were captured in unforgettable photographs by the legendary W. Eugene Smith. This program showcases over 600 of Smith's stunning photographs and includes a dramatic recreation in which actor Peter Riegert (Crossing Delancey, Local Hero) portrays the artist using dialogue taken from Smith's diaries and letters. Interwoven through the program are archival footage and interviews with family and friends of this brilliant, complicated man, whose work developed from twin themes of common humanity and social responsibility.

American Masters background

Info about American Masters

Studio(s): American Masters Pictures, Image Entertainment

Originally Released: Sep 25, 1989

Production Country: United States

Genres: Biography, Documentary, Music, History