This is an extra included with the DVD set for "Ace in the Hole"--a wonderfully cynical Billy Wilder film about the power of the press. In "Portrait of a 60% Perfect Man", a French film company interviews veteran director Wilder who was now in his mid-70s. Oddly, there didn't seem to be a lot of direction by the interviewer and much of it was simply a stream of consciousness discussion by Wilder. Much of the time he just talked and talked and the film seemed to wander. Now this is NOT a bad thing--after all, Wilder was an interesting man who lived an exciting life.
In addition to Wilder, there are a few interviews with his actor friends, but it only included Jack Lemmon and Walter Mathau. Had more celebrities been on hand (such as Tony Curtis to ALSO talk about "Some Like It Hot" or William Holden), it would have been better and provided a more well-rounded film. As a result, while the film was interesting, it doesn't seem that definitive a study of the great director and his craft.
By the way, watch Wilder throughout the film--it's kind of funny to see him and his body language--walking about one minute, laying in a hammock the next....it certainly was rather unconventional. Also, speaking of unconventional, pay close attention to him towards the end of the film--Wilder REALLY becomes cranky and rather funny. See this and see what I mean.
In addition to Wilder, there are a few interviews with his actor friends, but it only included Jack Lemmon and Walter Mathau. Had more celebrities been on hand (such as Tony Curtis to ALSO talk about "Some Like It Hot" or William Holden), it would have been better and provided a more well-rounded film. As a result, while the film was interesting, it doesn't seem that definitive a study of the great director and his craft.
By the way, watch Wilder throughout the film--it's kind of funny to see him and his body language--walking about one minute, laying in a hammock the next....it certainly was rather unconventional. Also, speaking of unconventional, pay close attention to him towards the end of the film--Wilder REALLY becomes cranky and rather funny. See this and see what I mean.