In memoriam: Frederick Wiseman (1930–2026)
Frederick Wiseman, one of the most influential and uncompromising documentary filmmakers, passed away at the age of 96. Over the course of more than five decades, Wiseman built a unique and radical body of work comprising nearly 50 films. Through these films, he offered his perspective on social and cultural institutions, power, and everyday human behavior.
Wiseman had close ties with IDFA from the beginning. He attended the opening night of the first festival in 1995 and served as a jury member, marking the start of a long and warm relationship. Over the years, he returned to IDFA many times with groundbreaking films such as At Berkeley, State Legislature, and Menus-Plaisirs – Les Troisgros.
In 2006, IDFA honored Wiseman with the Living Legend Award, celebrating his extraordinary artistic legacy and lasting influence on generations of documentary filmmakers.
With his passing, we lose a leading filmmaker and a dear friend of the festival. His work will continue to resonate, challenge, and inspire at IDFA and far beyond.
Photocredit: bram@belloni.nl
