At Berkeley

Founded in 1868, the University of California, Berkeley is still the most prestigious public university in the United States. But how long will the institution be able to uphold its reputation in the face of ever-decreasing investment from the state of California? After all, excellent education and outstanding research cost money, so who will pay the bills? If students have to pay more, this erodes the public nature of the university, while staff layoffs impair the quality of the education offered. Meanwhile, allowing businesses to invest in academic research leads to conflicts of interest. During these troubled economic times, Frederick Wiseman arrives on campus. As we would expect of him, he films extensive footage of all aspects of this illustrious institution. We follow inspirational lectures, attend seminars, are shown how to analyze literature, see researchers tinkering with robots and, in brief intermezzos, experience the leafy campus where students from all over the world rub shoulders. Wiseman accomplishes this all without intervening, conducting interviews, providing background information or offering any additional soundtrack. At the same time, the film subtly builds towards its climax: while everyday university life carries on, groups of students prepare for a demonstration against the cuts. On the other hand, the university administration works to maintain Berkeley's high standards, integrity and scholarly achievements.