François Reichenbach

The documentaries of French director Francois Reichenbach are noted for their detail and sharp insights. American life, particularly its eccentric aspects, are a favorite topic for Reichenbach. Before coming to film, he was a noted songwriter and penned tunes for such performers as Edith Piaf. He also worked closely with American art buyers as a European consultant. Reichenbach also spent a few years making amateur films. It was his cousin, producer Pierre Braunberger, who encouraged him to become a full-fledged director. Reichenbach made his debut in the mid-'50s and went on to helm both short and feature-length cinéma vérité documentaries including the Oscar-winning Arthur Rubinstein: L'Amour de la Vie (Arthur Rubinstein: Love of Life) (1970). In addition to directing, Reichenbach films his own work.

~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide