Documentary Filmmaker & Observational Storyteller; Creator of "How To With John Wilson" on HBO; Founder of Low Cinema
John Wilson Biography
John Wilson is an American documentary filmmaker recognized for his observational style in nonfiction storytelling. He is known for creating and directing "How To with John Wilson," a comedy docuseries on HBO. Wilson's filmmaking approach developed after working for a private investigator following his college graduation, an experience that influenced his focus on everyday people and urban environments. He has cited Les Blank, George Kuchar, and Bruce Brown as key influences on his work.
While attending Binghamton University, Wilson produced the short documentary "Looner," which explores a balloon fetish community. He was later commissioned to tour with David Byrne, resulting in the film "Temporary Color," a true crime concert documentary about Byrne and a pair of violent criminals. Wilson also created a documentary about the Sundance Film Festival for Vimeo, projects that led to a collaboration with comedian and writer Nathan Fielder.
"How To with John Wilson" is structured as a series of tutorials filmed primarily on the streets of New York City, covering topics ranging from small talk to scaffolding. The series is narrated in a second-person perspective and features extensive B-roll footage, with the show known for its unpredictable narrative paths and Wilson's interactions with New Yorkers. The series premiered on HBO and continued for multiple seasons. Wired magazine described the show as "an observational marvel" and "one of the most consistently surprising shows on TV." Stuart Heritage of The Guardian described the show as "a tremendous example of documentary as memoir."
Along with business partners, Wilson opened Low Cinema, a single-screen repertory theater in Ridgewood, Queens. His entrepreneurial activities reflect a deep investment in New York City life, a recurring theme in his filmmaking. His feature directorial debut, "The History of Concrete," is an American documentary film that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. The film follows Wilson as he attempts to utilize a commercial Hallmark movie formula to create and sell a documentary about the history of concrete, evolving into an exploration of urbanism, the built environment, and the textures of American life. The film received a limited theatrical release from Magnolia Pictures. Wilson's work is noted for uncovering meaning in overlooked and ordinary subjects, contributing to contemporary documentary filmmaking, urban studies, and nonfiction storytelling.
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What are the speaker fees for John Wilson
Speaking fees for John Wilson, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book John Wilson are $30,000 - $50,000 for live events and available upon request for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire John Wilson, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent. -
What topics does John Wilson speak about?
John Wilson is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Art & Design, Comedian, Entertainment, Real Estate, Storytelling, Television & Film -
Where does John Wilson travel from?
John Wilson generally travels from New York, NY, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent. -
Who is John Wilson’s agent?
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John Wilson is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book John Wilson for your event is $30,000 - $50,000. John Wilson generally travels from New York, NY, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Kevin Shinick, Caleb G. Abrams, Sassy Mohen, Adam Lorenzo and Sterlin Harjo. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling John Wilson for an upcoming live or virtual event.
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