Educational Media Reviews Online

Nina Rosenblum’s documentary isn’t just about her father’s remarkable photographic creations. It is also a personal conversation with Walter Rosenblum about his compassion for humanity.

Narrated by Walter Rosenblum, the film traces his photography and teaching career, which spanned more than six decades. Raised in a close-knit immigrant family on the lower east side of Manhattan, his work reflects a special connection with the inner-city and its enclaves of ethnic diversity. His early training at the New York Photo League with photography giants Lewis Hine and Paul Strand paved the way for Rosenblum to serve during World War II as a U.S. Army photographer. A decorated war veteran, Rosenblum returned home to teach at Brooklyn College and to continue photographing various peoples who left their homelands seeking a better life.

The appeal of this film lies not only in Walter Rosenblum’s work; it resides in the genuine concern he has for his subjects. This is most evident when Rosenblum becomes emotional as he describes the people and contexts of his photographs. Rosenblum sees photography as a means of extending friendship and celebrating the lives in the images.

Viewers will appreciate Walter Rosenblum and his work on several levels. His photos are an important social documentary of times, places, and people that are often excluded from the pages of history. Additionally, his work conveys the innocence, charm, and warmth of their creator. Finally, young photographers will learn from his take on technique, skill, and artistry.

In 1999, Walter Rosenblum: In Search of Pitt Street won a CINE Golden Eagle Award.

Highly recommended for all libraries.