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13 directors' embarrassing homework assignments, now required viewing.
TMDB
70

First Works (1989)

archaeological digfilm school energyhumble beginnings

Overview

Documentary

It's a mixed bag in the age of illuminating DVD supplements, but First Works effectively demonstrates the early promise of 13 successful filmmakers. Culled from programs originally broadcast on Showtime in 1990, this crude compilation combines student films, early professional work, and interviews with now-famous directors at various stages of commercial and artistic achievement.

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Content warning

Standout Aspects

Production

Time-capsule 1990 cable access aesthetic.

Direction

Spike Lee and Zemeckis already had IT.

Best for:Solo: Film nerds mining for origin stories.·Background: 260 minutes of directors roasting themselves.·Rewatch: Spot who improved and who peaked early.
ReleasedOct 10, 1989
Runtime4h 20m
StatusReleased

Vibe

Pacesteady
Intensitylow
Tonemixed
Feellight
Trans-Atlantic Enterprises

Top Cast

Oliver Stone

Oliver Stone

Self

Paul Mazursky

Paul Mazursky

Self

Robert Zemeckis

Robert Zemeckis

Self

Taylor Hackford

Taylor Hackford

Self

Spike Lee

Spike Lee

Self

Roger Corman

Roger Corman

Self

Richard Benjamin

Richard Benjamin

Self

Martin Scorsese

Martin Scorsese

Self

John Milius

John Milius

Self

Richard Donner

Richard Donner

Self

John Carpenter

John Carpenter

Self

Susan Seidelman

Susan Seidelman

Self

Ron Howard

Ron Howard

Self

Ask about First Works

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Deep Dive

Trivia, insights & behind the scenes

Cultural

This aired on Showtime in 1990, when 'DVD supplements' didn't exist and director commentary was revolutionary.

Trivia

Several directors later disowned their segments; the compilation itself became a document of embarrassment.

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