John Wilson’s How To with John Wilson isn’t just a show; it’s a masterclass in observational comedy, awkward sincerity, and the profound beauty of the mundane. It teaches us, above all else, how to see the world with new eyes, finding humor, pathos, and unexpected connections in the seemingly insignificant details of everyday life.
Decoding the Wilsonian Universe
How To with John Wilson isn’t a traditional “how-to” in the instructional sense. Rather, it’s a journey of exploration, framed by John Wilson’s anxieties and curiosities. Each episode, ostensibly offering guidance on a specific skill, like “How To Act After You’ve Had a Wonderful Meal” or “How To Throw Out Your Batteries,” quickly devolves into a sprawling, digressive, and often hilarious odyssey through the streets of New York City and beyond. Wilson’s approach is less about providing concrete steps and more about revealing the absurdity and beauty lurking beneath the surface of ordinary existence. He uses his camera as a tool for discovery, capturing the unexpected, the awkward, and the profoundly human.
The show’s genius lies in its unpredictability and its willingness to embrace the uncomfortable. Wilson doesn’t shy away from awkward encounters or unexpected detours. Instead, he uses them to illuminate deeper truths about ourselves and the world around us. He’s not afraid to be vulnerable, sharing his own anxieties and insecurities, which makes him incredibly relatable and allows viewers to connect with him on a personal level. In short, mastering the “art of John Wilson” involves adopting his keen observational skills, embracing serendipity, and finding the extraordinary in the ordinary.
The Keys to Understanding John Wilson’s Success
Several key elements contribute to the show’s unique appeal and critical acclaim. Understanding these elements is crucial to appreciating Wilson’s artistic vision:
Observational Prowess
Wilson’s ability to notice and capture the seemingly insignificant details of everyday life is unparalleled. He has an eye for the bizarre, the unexpected, and the humorous, transforming the mundane into something extraordinary. He films countless hours of footage, meticulously editing it to create a narrative that is both absurd and deeply insightful. This includes capturing snippets of conversations, unusual street scenes, and the quirks of human behavior.
Embrace of the Unplanned
The show thrives on improvisation and serendipity. Wilson rarely sticks to a rigid script, allowing the narrative to unfold organically as he encounters new people and situations. This willingness to embrace the unplanned allows for moments of genuine surprise and unexpected connection. This spontaneity is a hallmark of his style.
Honesty and Vulnerability
Wilson’s willingness to share his own anxieties and insecurities makes him incredibly relatable. He’s not afraid to be awkward or uncomfortable, which allows viewers to connect with him on a personal level. He uses his own vulnerabilities as a lens through which to explore broader themes of human experience.
Technical Innovation
The show’s unique visual style, which combines Wilson’s shaky handheld camerawork with meticulously curated archival footage and graphics, creates a distinctive and immersive viewing experience. The juxtaposition of seemingly disparate images and sounds adds to the show’s surreal and often humorous effect. The visual language is as important as the spoken word.
Humor and Pathos
How To with John Wilson is both hilarious and deeply moving. Wilson’s humor is often self-deprecating and observational, while his empathy for his subjects shines through in every episode. The show masterfully balances these two elements, creating a viewing experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ‘How To with John Wilson’
Here are some frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the intricacies of How To with John Wilson:
FAQ 1: Is How To with John Wilson scripted?
No, the show is largely unscripted. While Wilson might have a general outline for each episode, he relies heavily on improvisation and spontaneity. He allows the narrative to unfold organically as he encounters new people and situations, resulting in a genuine and unpredictable viewing experience. The scripted elements primarily consist of Wilson’s narration.
FAQ 2: How does John Wilson find the people he interviews?
Wilson finds his interview subjects through a variety of means, often through chance encounters on the streets of New York City. He also uses online forums, classified ads, and personal connections to find people who might be relevant to his chosen topic. His persistence and willingness to engage with strangers are key to his success.
FAQ 3: What kind of camera does John Wilson use?
Wilson primarily uses a small, handheld Sony PD170 camcorder. This camera gives the show its distinctive shaky, lo-fi aesthetic. The camera’s portability and ease of use allow Wilson to capture candid moments and blend seamlessly into his surroundings.
FAQ 4: How much footage does John Wilson shoot for each episode?
The exact amount of footage varies from episode to episode, but it is estimated that Wilson shoots hundreds of hours of footage for each installment. This massive amount of raw material is then meticulously edited down to create the final product.
FAQ 5: Who edits How To with John Wilson?
While John Wilson is heavily involved in the editing process, he collaborates with a team of talented editors who help him shape the raw footage into a coherent and engaging narrative. The editing is crucial to the show’s success, as it’s where the humor, pathos, and unexpected connections are brought to the fore. Adam Locke-Norton is often credited as a lead editor.
FAQ 6: What is the meaning behind the show’s title, How To with John Wilson?
The title is ironic and intentionally misleading. The show is not a traditional “how-to” in the instructional sense. Instead, it uses the framework of a “how-to” guide to explore broader themes of human experience and to offer a unique perspective on the world around us.
FAQ 7: What are some of the recurring themes in How To with John Wilson?
Recurring themes include anxiety, loneliness, connection, technology, the absurdity of modern life, and the search for meaning in the mundane. These themes are often explored through Wilson’s personal experiences and his interactions with the people he encounters. The themes are universal, despite the specific context.
FAQ 8: Is How To with John Wilson considered documentary or comedy?
The show blurs the lines between documentary and comedy. While it incorporates elements of both genres, it ultimately transcends easy categorization. It’s a unique blend of observational documentary, personal essay, and absurdist comedy. It defies conventional labels.
FAQ 9: Where is How To with John Wilson filmed?
While the show is primarily filmed in New York City, Wilson also travels to other locations around the world, including China, Ecuador, and Las Vegas. These travels often add a new dimension to the show’s exploration of human experience. He finds compelling stories everywhere he goes.
FAQ 10: What is John Wilson’s background?
John Wilson is a filmmaker and writer. Before creating How To with John Wilson, he was known for his short films and his work on other television shows, including Nathan for You. His background in independent filmmaking informs his unique aesthetic and approach to storytelling.
FAQ 11: How did John Wilson get his start in filmmaking?
Wilson began making films as a teenager, using a camcorder to document his life and the world around him. He later studied film in college and worked on various independent film projects before creating How To with John Wilson. His early work demonstrates his knack for observation.
FAQ 12: Will there be a Season 4 of How To with John Wilson?
Unfortunately, How To with John Wilson concluded after its third season. While there won’t be a fourth season, the existing episodes continue to resonate with audiences and inspire aspiring filmmakers. The legacy of the show will likely endure.
Emulating the Wilsonian Style: A Practical Guide
While replicating Wilson’s exact style is nearly impossible (and perhaps undesirable), aspiring filmmakers can learn valuable lessons from his approach:
Cultivate Curiosity
Be genuinely curious about the world around you. Pay attention to the details that others might overlook. Ask questions and be open to new experiences.
Embrace Imperfection
Don’t strive for perfection. Embrace the imperfections and accidents that can add character and authenticity to your work.
Be Yourself
Be true to your own voice and perspective. Don’t try to imitate others. Your unique perspective is what will make your work stand out.
Practice Patience
Shooting and editing this type of footage takes time and patience. Be prepared to spend hours capturing and sifting through footage.
Experiment
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and approaches. The best way to learn is by doing.
The Enduring Legacy of ‘How To with John Wilson’
How To with John Wilson is more than just a television show; it’s a cultural phenomenon. It has resonated with audiences around the world for its unique blend of humor, pathos, and insightful observations about the human condition. The show’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to make us see the world with new eyes, to find beauty in the mundane, and to connect with each other on a deeper level. By mastering the art of John Wilson, we can all learn to appreciate the extraordinary within the ordinary.