Gates of Heaven

Errol Morris’ debut film Gates of Heaven is an eccentric portrait of the American dream, focusing on two California pet cemeteries. One enterprise is set up by Floyd McClure at the intersection of two superhighways; the other is run by the Harbert family, who apply the latest marketing concepts to the profession. Morris flouted the documentary orthodoxy of the time that sought to be unobtrusive. Instead, he encouraged eye contact with the camera and carefully composed shots, establishing his signature approach.