The History of Concrete

The History of Concrete is a feature documentary by John Wilson, the filmmaker behind HBO’s How To with John Wilson. After his series ended, Wilson began filming concrete and the people who work with it. The subject takes him to trade events, streets and conversations that move well beyond a straightforward account of building materials.

Wilson attends a workshop on writing and selling a Hallmark movie. He then tries to apply that familiar story structure to his documentary about concrete. The attempt gives the film its shape while he keeps filming the odd encounters and small details that made his television series distinctive. Magnolia Pictures acquired the film after its Sundance premiere.

The documentary opened at New York’s IFC Center in September 2026 and made about $90,000 during its first weekend at that one theater, according to Associated Press reporting. Magnolia lists the film as playing in theaters. Check local listings for screenings; no confirmed streaming service or home-release date has been announced. Wilson directed the film and appears on screen. The official poster and four different stills from Magnolia’s press kit are included in Media.