Review of Gringo: The Dangerous Life of John McAfee (2016) by Mark J — 21 Aug 2018

This is a tremendous documentary. It's principled (meaning that the facts are equally presented, on both sides). You're let with the firm impression that Bernstein is searching for a balance of truth. An antidote to what's generally standard practice for documentary filmmaking.

Looking at the other reviews, I think some people are frustrated looking for a one-sided story. I think that it's to the filmmakers credit that she didn't do this, given she had a lot of ammunition.

Nevertheless, They are very serious implications and accusations, made by interviewees, against McAffee in this film. Some, based on the evidence, it's hard to deny. On the other hand, for anyone with any experience of life, there is a lot of evidence of a man who is. deeply conflicted, and is capable of acts of tremendous generosity and love. Heart of Darkness which is at one point presciently referenced by McAffee himself in the film, is a useable reference here.

A story about a man "spoiled" by his fascinating life, going from an abused childhood to "king of Belize". The filmmaker has done her research. And this is a must-watch for those seeking any insight into human nature. Whilst it's an obviously an incomplete story, because no documentary can ever be complete, and maybe the Fulstow re will emerge later, it's a tremendous piece of work.