Rivers and Tides is an excellent introduction to his work. Directed by Thomas Riedelsheimer the documentary follows Goldsworthy around from forests to seascapes to rivers as he creates various works for the film as well as philosophically discusses the meaning of his art.

Working with leaves, stones, sticks and ice as well as snow and dirt in various landscapes Goldsworthy creates a number of ephemeral and longstanding sculptures and intricate visual patterns that are at once astonishing and yet often simple.

The film is only 90 minutes in length but in that time the value of his work comes through. Primarily how much the form and content blend in well with whatever landscape Goldworhty is working in. Of note is the fact that Goldworthy's work is always trial and error: on a couple occassions his projects fall over and he must start again. But - with his understated and contemplative manner - he accepts this as part of his working process.

One of the things that make the documentary particularly striking is that it is artistically put together. There are a number of sweeping camera moves that track around Goldworthy's work as well as time elapsed shots and interesting cross cutting edits. The musical score is also mesmerizing and has a haunting quality.

Video:
The documentary is shot in film and it has a certain grainy look. It seems to be shot in 16mm. The image quality of the DVD is very good.

Audio:
Audio is in stereo and sounds good. The soundtrack is excellent.

Extras:
There are seven 'short' films lasting a total of 30 minutes that seem to be deleted scenes or at least extended scenes from the main documentary. Many of them feature interviews with Goldworthy.

Final Thoughts:
Andy Goldsworthy Rivers and Tides is a great introduction to the art work of Andy Goldsworthy. If you are a fan of his work it is essential viewing and probably a documentary you will want to own to show to your friends. The extras add a little more to the documentary. Highly recommended.