Is Going Where I've Never Been: The Photography of Diane Arbus Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1972)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 1972, Going Where I've Never Been: The Photography of Diane Arbus represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the TV Movie, Documentary category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into The work of photographer Diane Arbus as explained by her daughter, friends, critics, and in her own words as recorded in her journals. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of TV Movie, Documentary are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "The work of photographer Diane Arbus as explained by her daughter, friends, critics, and in her own words as recorded in her journals. Illustrated with many of her photographs. Mary Clare Costello, narrator Themes: Arbus' quirky go-it-alone approach. Her attraction to the bizarre, people on the fringes of society: sexual deviants, odd types, the extremes, styles in questionable taste, poses and situations that inspire irony or wonder. Where most people would look away she photographed."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. While the script occasionally leans into familiar territory, the efforts of Doon Arbus ensure that the emotional beats of Going Where I've Never Been: The Photography of Diane Arbus always land with sufficient weight. Doon Arbus provides a steady, reliable performance that anchors the film through its narrative shifts.

The direction by John Musilli is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 28 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Going Where I've Never Been: The Photography of Diane Arbus truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of TV Movie, Documentary, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Going Where I've Never Been: The Photography of Diane Arbus explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1972 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and John Musilli respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Going Where I've Never Been: The Photography of Diane Arbus serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Doon Arbus or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Going Where I've Never Been: The Photography of Diane Arbus is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.