The Unknown Known (2013) Review

Errol Morris's documentary, "The Unknown Known," takes us into the world of one of the most polarizing figures in recent American history: Donald Rumsfeld. Released in 2013, this film offers an insightful look into the mind of the former U.S. Secretary of Defense, digging into into his career and the decisions that have had lasting impacts on global politics. As a collector, it's always exciting to find a documentary that not only informs but also challenges the way we think about history and leadership.

Plot Summary

Without giving too much away, "The Unknown Known" is structured around a series of interviews with Donald Rumsfeld himself. The film is constructed from over 30 hours of interviews, and Morris uses this footage to explore Rumsfeld's political career, focusing on his role in the Iraq War and the controversial policies that defined his tenure. Rumsfeld, known for his enigmatic and often contradictory statements, is the sole voice in this documentary, allowing viewers to see how he navigates questions about his past decisions and public perception.

Performances

In a documentary, especially one like this, the term "performance" is a bit of a misnomer. However, Donald Rumsfeld's presence in the film is nothing short of engaging. His calm demeanor and confident delivery often mask the complexity of the topics at hand. Rumsfeld's skill in articulating his views, combined with his ability to evade direct answers, makes for an intriguing watch. His interaction with Morris, though mostly indirect, creates a dynamic that feels almost like a chess game, with each trying to outmaneuver the other intellectually.

Direction and Craft

Errol Morris is known for his distinctive style of interviewing and presentation, and "The Unknown Known" is no exception. Utilizing his famous Interrotron, Morris allows Rumsfeld to speak directly to the camera, creating an intimate yet confrontational viewing experience. This technique gives the impression that Rumsfeld is speaking directly to the audience, drawing them into the conversation.

The film's editing is sharp and purposeful, weaving in archival footage and Rumsfeld's own memos to provide context to his statements. The use of his memos, in particular, adds an interesting layer to the narrative, offering insights into his thought process and decision-making. Morris's choice of Philip Glass for the score enhances the film's tension and keeps the audience engaged throughout.

For collectors, Morris's attention to detail and narrative structure makes "The Unknown Known" a significant piece. It combines historical documentation with personal reflection, making it a valuable addition to any documentary collection.

Collector's Verdict

"The Unknown Known" is a must-have for documentary enthusiasts, particularly those with an interest in political history. The Blu-ray edition provides excellent picture and sound quality, enhancing the viewing experience with crystal-clear interviews and vibrant archival footage. It's a common release, so locating a copy shouldn't be too challenging for most collectors.

In terms of rarity, the film is relatively accessible, with various editions available for purchase. Collectors looking for something unique might want to seek out any limited edition releases or promotional items that accompanied the film's debut.

Overall, "The Unknown Known" offers a unique perspective on recent political history, making it a worthy addition to any collection focused on documentaries or political subjects.