Ep 2. Directed by William Wyler

As a towering figure in the golden age of Hollywood, William Wyler directed some of the most iconic films of his time. From "Ben-Hur" to "Mrs. Miniver," Wyler's work continues to captivate audiences with its sheer beauty, intelligence, and poignancy. In American Masters' second-season episode "Directed by William Wyler," viewers are treated to a deep dive into one of cinema's great artistic minds.

The episode begins by tracing Wyler's early years as a boy growing up in Europe. Born into a family of Swiss hoteliers, he relocated to the United States as a young man to pursue his dream of becoming a director. The segment exploring this transition is a fascinating look at the immigrant experience and the way in which it shaped Wyler as both an artist and a person.

From there, the episode delves into the specifics of Wyler's craft. Through clear, concise interviews with the director's contemporaries, as well as discussions with modern filmmakers inspired by his work, we get an understanding of what made Wyler's films so special. The emphasis on his visual style—his insistence on long takes and precise framing—is particularly illuminating. Even viewers who are unfamiliar with the intricacies of filmmaking will find themselves awed by the sheer beauty of Wyler's compositions.

But where "Directed by William Wyler" truly excels is in its examination of the director's humanism. Again and again, we hear from critics and fellow artists alike about Wyler's ability to tell deeply emotional stories with a light touch. The most powerful moments of the episode are those in which we see how Wyler approached the characters in his films—not as caricatures or archetypes, but as fully fleshed-out human beings. In a time when spectacle and action dominate the box office, it's a refreshing reminder of what good storytelling can do.

Of course, no examination of William Wyler would be complete without a look at his masterpieces. "Directed by William Wyler" does not disappoint in this regard, providing ample screen time for clips from films like "The Best Years of Our Lives” and "Funny Girl." The analysis of these films is smart and engaging, offering insight into the themes that made them resonate with audiences then and now.

But perhaps the most enlightening moments in "Directed by William Wyler" come when the episode addresses the darker aspects of the director's legacy. Wyler, like many of his peers in Hollywood, was notorious for his treatment of actors and crew members. Hearing stories of his demanding, even tyrannical, behavior on set is a reminder of the difficult choices that artists sometimes must make to achieve greatness. It also underscores the importance of holding artists accountable for their actions, even as we celebrate their achievements.

Overall, "Directed by William Wyler" is a must-watch for cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike. It's a thorough and thoughtful exploration of one of Hollywood's most gifted artists, filled with insights into his craft and his humanity. Whether you're a longtime fan of Wyler's work or simply curious about the history of cinema, this episode is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation of what makes movies great.