The B-Side: Elsa Dorfman's Portrait Photography (2016)

Errol Morris, known for his distinctive documentaries, brings us an intimate exploration of Elsa Dorfman and her unique brand of portrait photography. If you're not familiar with Elsa Dorfman, you're in for a treat. This film gives viewers a personal tour of her world, where she uses a large-format Polaroid camera to capture not just images, but the very essence of the people who step in front of her lens.

Plot Summary

The documentary doesn't follow a traditional plot, but rather, it invites you into the life and mind of Elsa Dorfman. Shot in her Cambridge, Massachusetts studio, the film focuses on her career behind the camera and her passion for the rare, large-format Polaroid photography. This isn't just about taking pictures; it's about preserving memories in a way that digital photography simply can't. Morris allows Elsa to guide us through her archives, sharing stories behind some of her most cherished portraits. The B-Side offers a glimpse into her creative process and her reflections on the people she has photographed over the decades.

Performances

While traditional narratives rely on actors, documentaries like this depend heavily on their subjects. Elsa Dorfman herself is the star here, not through dramatics, but through her engaging personality and her enthusiasm for her art. Her warmth and humor shine through as she shares anecdotes and insights, making her not just a subject, but a storyteller. Morris doesn't overshadow her; instead, he lets her take the lead, which makes the documentary feel more personal and genuine.

Direction and Craft

Errol Morris is a master of the documentary format, and his direction here is subtle but effective. He balances the film between Elsa's storytelling and the visual exploration of her work. The use of still photography interspersed with interviews keeps the pace lively and engaging. Morris has a knack for drawing out the essence of his subjects, and here he captures Elsa's infectious passion for her craft. The choice to focus on the large-format Polaroid as a pivotal part of the narrative highlights the uniqueness of Elsa's art, almost making the camera itself a secondary character. The editing is smooth, allowing the viewer to absorb the visual and emotional content without distraction.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, this documentary is a gem, particularly if you have an interest in photography or the arts. The B-Side is readily available on Blu-ray, which is the best format to appreciate the film's visual and audio quality. It's not particularly rare, making it a common find for most collectors, but its significance lies in its content and the insight it offers into an artist's world. This documentary is a must-have for anyone who appreciates the art of portrait photography and the stories behind the images.

Overall, The B-Side: Elsa Dorfman's Portrait Photography is a thoughtful and engaging exploration of an artist's life and work. It offers a personal glimpse into the world of portrait photography, emphasizing both the technical and emotional aspects of the craft. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply appreciate a well-told story, this documentary deserves a spot in your collection.

Star Rating: 4.0 out of 5