Review of Examined Life (2008) by Benjamin J — 24 Dec 2010

An introduction to 8 modern philosophers through chats with them in ordinary situations. This wasn't too consistent as some sections drag and others are incredibly interesting. Slavoj Zizek's rant on ecology is worth a look, and the three interjections by Cornel West are absolutely brilliant. However, Michael Hardt and Peter Singer are a let down, really only giving you an insight into why they think particular issues are important in a biographical way rather than getting you to think about the issue further. Judith Butler is also pushed to one side as she interviews the director's wheelchair bound sister. Although this is interesting(ish), I couldn't help but think "You've got Judith Butler here....talk to her!" Nussbaum is the most overtly philosophical, explaining her ideas directly to camera, which didn't fit the film- but personally I found this to be refreshing in the middle of the free form disjointed ramblings either side.

A good film, but maybe one to be dipped into rather than working through in one sitting.