Bay Area filmmaker Jenni Olson's distinctive documentaries are part memoir, part Bay Area history. Watching one is like being put into a meditative state. (Photo courtesy of the Criterion Channel)

Jenni Olson’s films offer a refreshing respite from the overwhelming clamor of our times, a collection of reflective films that squeegee the brain of the swirl of hyperactive edits, flashy advertising images and abrasive kabooms.

From “The Joy of Life” to “The Royal Road,” Olson takes our hands and encourages us to slow down a little and become one with the words and the landscapes. Watching an Olson film takes on a form of cinematic meditation, a nourishing experience.

Continue reading for free

Sign in to read this story and receive the weekly roundup in your inbox.

Or

Success! Your account was created and you’re signed in.
Please visit My Account to manage your account.