ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Ross McElwee's 'Sherman's March' Returns in 4K Restoration at Film Forum

exhibition · 2026-06-04

Ross McElwee's influential 1980s essay-film 'Sherman's March' will screen in a new 4K restoration at Film Forum from July 3 to July 9. Originally funded to document the legacy of William Tecumseh Sherman's 1864 march, McElwee shifts focus after a breakup to explore modern romance in the New South. The film profiles women like Pat, an aspiring actress, and Claudia, a roller-skating enthusiast, with novelistic sensitivity.

Key facts

  • Ross McElwee's 'Sherman's March' is an influential 1980s essay-film.
  • The film will run in a new 4K restoration at Film Forum.
  • Screening dates: Friday, July 3 through Thursday, July 9.
  • McElwee originally planned a documentary about Sherman's 1864 march.
  • After a breakup, McElwee shifted focus to personal and sociological themes.
  • The film documents courting rituals in the New South.
  • It features portraits of women including Pat and Claudia.
  • The work is described as generous and humanistic.

Entities

Artists

  • Ross McElwee

Institutions

  • Film Forum

Locations

  • New York City
  • United States

Sources