Lightning over Water
Dir: Wim Wenders, Nicholas Ray
1980
*****
Lightning over Water is a fascinating documentary of sorts, it's an interesting project I've not seen before or since anyway. Nicholas Ray was a charismatic director and also a bit of a workaholic, only really truly happy when working on a film. That is where it's hard to say if it was all planned or if Wenders took advantage of a dying man, as at times it is quite an uncomfortable film to watch, even for the more hardened voyeur. I think only two filmmakers such as Wenders and Ray could have actually pulled it off to be honest and it's a pleasure to be able to watch what is a very personal film for both of them. The last interview with Ray is something that stayed with me for days after first watching but then so was the image of the old sailing ship floating in New York bay. Not for everyone but for fans of either Ray and/or Wenders it's a must. If you are not a fan of either/or Ray or Wenders then why not?