The Big Picture The Robert Altman Hall of Fame
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Sep 9, 2025 The hosts celebrate Robert Altman’s legacy, exploring his unique storytelling and innovative filmmaking style. They reflect on highlights from the Venice Film Festival, share personal anecdotes, and humorously debate iconic facial hair in filmmaking. Discussions include Altman's significant works like 'Nashville' and 'MASH', his influence on modern directors, and the challenges of accessing his lesser-known films. The conversation is filled with nostalgia, cinematic critiques, and even a lighthearted debate about the perfect brownie recipe.
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Altman's Enduring Influence
- Robert Altman shaped Paul Thomas Anderson and many modern filmmakers by treating films as ensembles and worlds rather than tight narratives.
- His influence shows in directors who prioritize atmosphere, overlapping dialogue, and sprawling casts.
Start With The Player
- If you want to explore Altman, start with The Player as a modern, accessible primer.
- It demonstrates his rhythm, satire, and ensemble craft while bridging 90s audiences to his 70s work.
From Industrial Films To TV Sets
- Altman started in Kansas City making industrial films and TV episodes, not as a Hollywood wunderkind.
- He learned improvisation and actor work on shows like Bonanza before directing features.
