Double Play: James Benning and Richard Linklater 2014

A documentary that delves into the profound friendship between acclaimed filmmakers James Benning and Richard Linklater, this film seamlessly intertwines candid conversations with a rich array of archival footage, examining both their parallels and distinctions in life and their cinematic visions.

The story begins in 1985, when Richard Linklater, a former oil rig worker, initiated a film screening society in Austin, Texas. This society aimed to showcase classic art-house and experimental films to a growing community of film enthusiasts. Eventually evolving into a nonprofit entity, the rebranded Austin Film Society was able to gather enough funding to invite prominent filmmakers, and their first guest was none other than Milwaukee’s own James Benning, who had then relocated to New York.

Upon accepting the invitation, Benning met Linklater, and a genuine personal and intellectual connection blossomed between them. This encounter laid the groundwork for future screenings and multiple interactions. From the late 1960s, Benning had been crafting structural non-narrative films primarily in solitude. Meanwhile, Linklater was just stepping into the world of filmmaking, producing his initial 8 mm and 16 mm shorts. Despite their diverging career paths—Linklater experiencing significant success with big-budget narrative films following the cult achievement of Slacker (1991), while Benning chose to stay true to his modest artistic roots—the two have maintained a steadfast friendship.

This documentary, crafted by film studies professor Gabe Klinger and produced in collaboration with the legendary Andre S. Labarthe, who co-produced the notable French television series Cinema, de notre temps (Cinema of Our Time), seeks to capture the unique bond between Benning and Linklater. Over several days in Austin and Bastrop, Texas, the filmmakers present Benning’s works at the Austin Film Society, engage in friendly baseball games at Linklater’s residence, visit significant filming locations from the past, and share personal stories over long meals and serene hikes.

By blending this newly filmed content with comprehensive archival material, Double Play endeavors to uncover not only the similarities shared by Benning and Linklater but also the distinct differences that characterize their artistic journeys and philosophies. Through this intricate tapestry of friendship and film, viewers are invited to reflect on the expansive landscape of cinema and the enduring bonds that it can create.