Director/Editor Frederick Wiseman talks about first hearing “The Last Letter” as a reading, directing it as a play in the U.S. and abroad, and the challenges of filming a dramatic prose piece.

Tell us more about how you decided to make THE LAST LETTER. How did you find out about the story on which it was based, and decide to adapt it for the stage?

Twenty years ago, I heard the chapter called “The Last Letter” from Vasily Grossman’s book Life and Fate read at a small theater in Paris. I acquired the English and French film rights and the English language theater rights. I first directed the play at the American Repertory Theatre in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1987. I then directed the French version at the Comédie-Française in 2000 and the American version in New York in 2003 for Theatre for a New Audience.

What impact do you hope this film will have? What has the audience response been so far?

The audience response has been enthusiastic. I do not know how to think about “impact.”

What is the biggest challenge about turning a prose piece into a film?

For this material, it was hard to find a way to visually relate the external and internal worlds of the woman who writes the letter.

What was the most difficult part of THE LAST LETTER to make?

To visualize the relationship between the woman who writes the letter and all the people she refers to in the letter. I try to suggest this by the use of shadows.

What was it like working with the film’s actress?

A privilege. Catherine Samie is a great actress who, in her 50 years at the Comédie-Française, has perfected her craft.

The independent film business is a difficult one. What keeps you motivated?

I like to make movies.

Why did you choose to present your film on public television?

Public television has been the principal outlet for all my films for 38 years. I am very grateful to public television for their interest and support of my work. It is my natural home.

What didn’t you get done when you were making your film?

Reading and skiing.

What advice do you have for aspiring filmmakers?

Marry rich.

Which artists have most influenced your work?

Samuel Beckett, Eugene Ionesco, Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin, Groucho Marx.

If you could have one motto, what would it be?

“Semper paralysis.”

Frederick Wiseman responds to viewer questions about his work.
Read the answers in Inside Indies >>