FILM REVIEW: 'Finding Vivian Maier'

"Finding Vivian Maier" is a triumphant treasure trove of visual pleasures wrapped in mystery. Directors John Maloof and Charlie Siskel take us on an amazing journey which begins with the purchase of a box containing old photo negatives from the '50s and '60s.

In 2007 Mr. Maloof, who'd roamed flea markets since childhood, came upon a monumental find at a Chicago thrift auction. A very private and reclusive nanny named Vivian Maier had left behind over 100,000 negatives and 2,700 roles of undeveloped film. Viewing her phenomenal photography, Maloof became obsessed with archiving it as well as finding out why she never shared her brilliant work with anyone.

Through interviews with former employers and the children (now grown) whom she cared for, there arise conflicting revelations as to Vivian's character. Seems she'd drag her charges to the seediest areas of Chicago to capture haunting images of people and places ... including lots of selfies.

Vivian's persona is as enticing as her camerawork. Why would this compulsive hoarder and prolific artist keep her life a secret? It's alluded to that she had a "dark side." One interviewee maintains that Vivian forced fed her and also took her to the Chicago stockyards to witness sheep being slaughtered. A former employer included Phil Donohue who recalled her taking a photo of the inside of a garbage can.

"Finding Vivian Maier" is an extremely watchable piece of filmmaking. One would expect examining photos on the big screen would be somewhat tedious. Not so. Maloof and Siskel takes us on a magical mystery tour of Maier's work by way of exquisite editing and perfect scoring.

For $380, Maloof purchased a stash cached in old boxes. His appreciation of Ms. Maier's work has since catapulted her to one of the " 20th century's greatest photographers" status. She's now being compared to such greats as Diane Arbus, Robert Frank and Helen Levitt. And to think that MoMA turned down Maloof's offer to archive Maier's photos when he first acquired them.

"Finding Vivian Maier" is part detective story, part autobiography and part love affair. Had Mr. Maloof not been so enamored by this gifted artist, her genius may never have received the worldwide recognition it so rightfully deserves.