Documentary Review
(4 out of 5)

Fueled by a raging libido, Wild Turkey, and superhuman doses of drugs, Thompson was a true “free lance, ” goring sacred cows with impunity, hilarity, and a steel-eyed conviction for writing wrongs. Focusing on the good doctor’s heyday, 1965 to 1975, the film includes clips of never-before-seen (nor heard) home movies, audiotapes, and passages from unpublished manuscripts.

This film works on many levels. It is a snapshot of history, both social and political, and it also explores the existential being that is Hunter S. Thompson. I was unaware of the many accomplishments in “Gonzo’s” storied career. For example, I did not know that he ran for Sheriff in Aspen. I also, did not know how much influence he had on the Nixon/McGovern election and the Jimmy Carter phenomenon. All of these segments were very revealing and interesting exploring his influence/legacy in 70’s politics. His “rock & roll” approach to psychedelic drugs and the courage he had to change the way many thought of them is where the film was most predictable (exactly what I expected). I thought the documentary would have been better served to focus more on his downfall and delve into understanding what happened to him in his later years. I was most excited when it appeared that he was going to have a resurgents when writing about the 911 at the start of the film.

This film is not for everyone. I would definitely suggest it to those who liked Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and in contrary I would not recommend this documentary if you did not care for FLLV. On a side note, Johnny Dep narrates much of the documentary.

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