Gonzo

Director:Alex Gibney
Writers (WGA):Alex Gibney (screenplay)Hunter S. Thompson (writings)
Release Date:19 December 2008 (UK) more
Genre:Documentary Biography more
Plot:A portrait of the late gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson. full

Viewed 02/01/09
Score: 3/6

A thorough look at the life and career of cult author/journalist Hunter S. Thompson, narrated appropriately by Johnny Depp who played Thompson in the movie adaptation of his book ‘Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas’. Interviews with Thompson’s friends and colleagues had a very formal feeling and a bit at odds in a documentary about such a chaotic character, although Jann Werner’s tears when speaking of Thompson’s death were unexpectedly moving.
Dedicated fans of the good Dr. won’t learn anything new from the film; those with a casual interest may find it too in depth and straight laced to be entertaining.
Irritating omissions were that lack of time dedicated to Thompson’s friendship with Oscar Acosta, who was the basis for the Attorney Dr. Gonzo in ‘Fear and Loathing…’ plus the lack of acknowledgement of just how much of that book is fiction as opposed to fact. Thompson’s violent temper was mentioned frequently but, perhaps due to the fact the film is meant to be a tribute, his domestic abuse was not.
In the end it is another stereotypical story of a great talent being destroyed by personal demons and vices, plus the tragic waste of suicide.
For a fuller and more accurate view into his life I recommend the collected publications of his personal letters ‘The proud Highway’ and ‘Fear and Loathing in America’, also the BBC Omnibus documentary that’s included as a bonus on the Region 1 DVD deluxe edition of ‘Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.