Review of Dreams of a Life (2011) by Daniel L — 29 Jan 2013

I enjoy documentaries and watch quite a few of them. I would rate the Thin Blue Line as the best I have ever seen, and this doc is the best one I have seen since the Thin Blue Line. It is a compelling human story told in a similar way, a subtle approach through interviews, music and dramatization.

You are invited to ponder and draw your own conclusions, you are not being persuaded to adopt some preconceived message. If you are like me, don't be put off by the negative reviews here. This film is a must see.

If your idea of a good documentary is Super Size Me, then this might not be your cup of tea. There is beauty here in the unanswered mysteries, piecing together what can be known about this woman. She exhibits common frailties which lead to her isolation.

Anyone with some introspection can see a reflection of oneself in her character. It is easy identify with her loneliness and her imperfections. She is like anyone just trying to make it in the world, suffering disappointments, being let down and letting others down.

And when she dies no one cares enough to check up on her for three years. It causes one to ponder a question central to the human condition: What is the meaning of life? This film is very thought provoking and worthwhile.