The sardine sequence alone took about five weeks to edit. It's a very difficult time. I can't stop working. Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Wiseman's craft, though, is the way he is able to insinuate himself into the lives of his subjects. The editing of the scenes, the arrangement and timing may be wonderful, but what you can't help being amazed by is what he captures on camera.
People chat unselfconsciously.
They play, they argue, they confide. But it's not as easy as all that, Wiseman insists. Then again, he says, you can't be too blatant. The worst thing you can do is say, 'Don't pay any attention, don't look in the camera,' because then they'll look in the camera. Whatever it is that Wiseman does, it works.