“Back to the old adage - it’s 99 percent perspiration and 1 percent inspiration. You got to get out there and you got to push, push, push.”
Salesman (1968), one of the greatest documentary films I’ve seen to date. I’ve enjoyed all the Maysles Brothers’ films I’ve seen so far - Salesman, Gimme Shelter and Grey Gardens- but Salesman is really special. It’s the perfect example of fly-on-the-wall, direct cinema that the Maysles are known for.
The film follow four door-to-door bible salesman in suburban New Jersey struggling to make a living with their highly-stressful, seemingly impossible job. It begins by introducing us to a real-life Willy Loman in Paul Brennan also known as “the Badger.” There’s also “the Bull,” “the Gipper” and “the Rabbit” featured in the supporting cast and they all come complete with full on, distinct sales tactics and methods of breaking through “the no’s” they receive door-to-door. I love it when I see an old movie like this and think - ah, that’s where Tarantino or so and so director got that idea.
What amazes me is how these filmmakers were even allowed into these homes where the salesman were a knocking? If you watch the film, you’ll understand what I mean. The Maysles got some of the most candid, honest and highly telling interactions I’ve seen on film. It’s fascinating and sad all at the same time. I highly recommend it!
