Filmmaker John Wilson on Raw Docs & Unsexy Concrete

Filmmaker John Wilson, recognized for his documentary programming at TIFF and his series 'How to With John Wilson,' shared insights into his creative process. He champions a raw, unmanipulated style of filmmaking, often utilizing full-frame shots to capture candid moments. Wilson likens his on-screen persona to a Mr. Magoo-type character, embracing a less-researched approach to environments, akin to Frederick Wiseman.

Wilson's latest project, 'The History of Concrete,' presented a unique set of challenges. He was drawn to the material itself rather than its perceived austerity or aesthetic qualities, acknowledging its 'unsexy' nature as part of its appeal. Despite its difficulty to pitch, he envisioned the film with creative flair, comparing its potential scope to 'Oppenheimer' or 'Barbie.'

Reflecting on his career, Wilson noted a preference for feature films over television, though he misses the consistent paycheck. He mentioned that the budget for 'The History of Concrete' was significantly lower than his series work. Looking ahead, Wilson expressed interest in pitching another TV series, though he anticipates considerable legal and production complexities.