Henry Fonda for President
A personal essay about the United States viewed through the life and work of the actor Henry Fonda. A very private man who thought he had “no good answers to anything” becomes the unlikely motor of a parallel history. His voice, recorded during his last interview in 1981, and his onscreen avatars guide us through America’s past and present.
Less -
This is the directorial debut of Alexander Horwath, an Austrian film critic who had served as the director of the Viennale (1992-1997) and the director of the Austrian Film Museum (2002-2017). This documentary traces the history and life of the iconic Hollywood actor Henry Fonda, from his Dutch ancestors to his rebellious children Jane and Peter. In the film, the director delves into the history and mythology of cinema, as well as the political landscape of the United States. Seamlessly blending social analysis with film criticism, he revisits Henry Fonda’s acting career and examines the impact of his acting style on the American imagination. The director also brings esteemed guests, such as John Ford and Sergio Leone, into the film as well as the fictional character Travis Bickle. (Sung MOON)
Less -
Mischief Films Verein zur Foerderung des Dokumentarfilms & Co KG⎜office@mischief-films.com
Alexander HORWATH