The Directors

This programme examines the life and career of Robert Wise, the Oscar‑winning director of The Sound of Music and West Side Story. It also covers his direction of the science‑fiction classics The Day the Earth Stood Still and The Andromeda Strain.

The programme offers a concise portrait of Robert Wise, charting both his personal journey and his professional achievements. It presents his career as a single thread, guiding viewers through the milestones that defined his place in cinema. By focusing on his own words and archival material, the show builds a clear picture of the man behind some of the most recognised titles in film history. Central to the episode are Wise’s most celebrated successes. It highlights the two Academy Awards he secured for the musical classics The Sound of Music and West Side Story, underscoring the impact those wins had on his reputation. At the same time, the programme turns to his work in the science‑fiction arena, detailing his direction of The Day the Earth Stood Still and The Andromeda Strain, films that demonstrated his ability to move beyond the musical genre. Beyond the headline achievements, the documentary touches on the breadth of Wise’s contributions. It points out how his willingness to tackle both lavish productions and tightly‑crafted genre pieces illustrated a rare versatility. The episode also reflects on the lasting influence of his storytelling choices, showing how his blend of technical skill and narrative focus left an imprint on subsequent filmmakers. In doing so, the programme paints a balanced view of a director whose career spanned a wide range of cinematic styles, all while remaining rooted in the same commitment to craft.