What Happens at the End of Nathaniel Dorsky: An Interview?

In his contribution to the On Art and Artists interview series, Nathaniel Dorsky (b.1943) begins by discussing his childhood love of the John Ford film Stagecoach and its influence upon his decision to make films while attending Antioch College. Describing the affinity he developed for work operating at the intersection of film materiality and personal language, Dorsky explains how he developed his philosophy of the “devotional film” and the “microcosmic viewer.” Dorsky likens his practice to Buddhist sculpture, referring to himself as a “Japanese poet continuing aspects of the ethos of the Marxist revolution.” In the interview, the artist describes his use of the screen as an “altarpiece for the image” and emphasizes his use of editing to create works which “harmoniously coalesce.” Interview conducted by Jeffrey Skoller in May 2000, edited in 2014.

the director's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Nathaniel Dorsky (Self)'s journey. 1943) begins by discussing his childhood love of the John Ford film Stagecoach and its influence upon his decision to make films while attending Antioch College.

How Does Nathaniel Dorsky (Self)'s Story End?

• Nathaniel Dorsky: Nathaniel Dorsky's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Jeffrey Skoller (Interviewer): Jeffrey Skoller's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.

What Does the Ending of Nathaniel Dorsky: An Interview Mean?

The ending of Nathaniel Dorsky: An Interview brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Nathaniel Dorsky's story may not satisfy all audiences.