David Maysles

American documentary filmmaker

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July 23, 2026

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David Maysles was an American documentary filmmaker known for his work in the cinema verité style, often referred to as "direct cinema". He collaborated with his brother, Albert Maysles, establishing Maysles Films, Inc. in 1962.1

Their notable films include:
* Salesman (1969), documenting the lives of four door-to-door Bible salesmen.1
* Gimme Shelter* (1970), which captured the Rolling Stones' 1969 U.S. tour, including the tragic Altamont concert.1
* Grey Gardens* (1975), an intimate portrait of eccentric socialites Edith Bouvier Beale and her daughter.1

The Maysles brothers' work was characterized by its sensitivity and compassion, revealing profound insights into their subjects.1

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Albert and David Maysles
In 1962 the brothers established the production company Maysles Films, Inc., and began to collaborate on documentaries in the cinema verité style, which they called “direct cinema.” They gained fame for the films Salesman (1969), about four door-to-door Bible salesmen, and Gimme Shelter (1970), which covered the 1969…
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In 1962 the brothers established the production company Maysles Films, Inc., and began to collaborate on documentaries in the cinema verité style, which they called “direct cinema.” They gained fame for the films Salesman (1969), about four door-to-door Bible salesmen, and Gimme Shelter (1970), which covered the 1969…
Read More