Meaning: The quote "I like the way Wiseman builds a story in an unconventional way" by Jim McKay, a journalist, likely refers to the filmmaking style of Frederick Wiseman, a renowned documentary filmmaker. Wiseman is known for his unconventional approach to storytelling, as he often eschews traditional narrative structures and instead immerses viewers in the raw and unfiltered experiences of his subjects. This quote reflects an appreciation for Wiseman's unique and innovative approach to documentary filmmaking.

Frederick Wiseman's body of work spans over five decades and includes more than 40 documentary films, each offering a deep dive into various institutions and aspects of society. His films are characterized by their observational style, where he presents unscripted and unfiltered footage, allowing the subjects and their environments to speak for themselves. Wiseman's approach to storytelling involves minimal narration and no interviews or talking heads, as he prefers to let the visuals and interactions within the scenes convey the narrative.

Jim McKay's appreciation for the unconventional storytelling of Frederick Wiseman likely stems from the filmmaker's ability to capture the essence of human experiences and societal structures without imposing a predetermined narrative arc. Instead, Wiseman's films unfold organically, presenting a mosaic of moments and interactions that collectively form a rich and nuanced portrayal of the subject matter. This approach invites viewers to draw their own conclusions and insights, as they are immersed in the unadorned reality presented on screen.

One of Wiseman's notable films is "Titicut Follies," which was released in 1967. The documentary delves into the harsh conditions at the Bridgewater State Hospital for the criminally insane in Massachusetts, offering a candid and unflinching portrayal of the treatment of its inmates. The film's stark and unembellished depiction of the institutionalized residents and the bureaucratic systems at play sparked controversy and raised important questions about ethics and human rights. "Titicut Follies" exemplifies Wiseman's unconventional storytelling approach, as he allows the footage and interactions within the institution to drive the narrative, prompting viewers to confront the uncomfortable truths it reveals.

In addition to "Titicut Follies," Wiseman's extensive body of work includes films such as "High School," "Hospital," "Welfare," "Public Housing," and "National Gallery," among many others. Each of these documentaries offers a deep dive into a specific institution or aspect of society, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of human existence. Wiseman's observational and unobtrusive style allows the viewer to become a silent observer, experiencing the unfiltered reality of the subjects without the influence of a traditional narrative structure.

Jim McKay's recognition of Wiseman's unconventional storytelling aligns with the filmmaker's influence on the documentary genre. Wiseman's approach has inspired and influenced generations of filmmakers, challenging them to rethink traditional storytelling conventions and embrace a more immersive and unfiltered portrayal of their subjects. His impact has extended beyond the realm of documentary filmmaking, influencing broader discussions about the role of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the world around us.

In conclusion, the quote "I like the way Wiseman builds a story in an unconventional way" by Jim McKay, a journalist, reflects an appreciation for Frederick Wiseman's innovative approach to documentary filmmaking. Wiseman's films eschew traditional narrative structures in favor of an observational and unfiltered style that immerses viewers in the raw and unadorned reality of his subjects. Through his extensive body of work, Wiseman has challenged and redefined the conventions of storytelling, inviting audiences to engage with the unvarnished truths and complexities of human experiences and societal structures.