Review of Life Itself (2014) by Art S — 10 Jun 2015

Life Itself is a film where the subject is not only honoured, but recognised and celebrated. The most poignant, moving element of this picture is its ability to celebrate as opposed to mourn; laugh as opposed to cry. Its a wonderfully heartfelt, warm, beautiful piece of filmmaking.

The older one becomes, the more wise and, for some of us, connected we become to films and indeed life itself (roll credits). This is demonstrated here with tremendous compassion and respect, owing to a richly textured and funny glance at the life of a film critic. Specifically, Roger Ebert and his rise from the Chigaco Sun Times to At the Movies. The most compelling aspect is Roger's realism and honesty.

It's admirable that he criticised films of not only his friends, but those of people who were being interviewed with him, like Chevvy Chase. Hs dedication to his profession is something to be admirable about and, perhaps, he's what made cinema the defining art form it is today.

What's most apparent about Life Itself is its ability to transcend singular themes, those of comedy, romance, drama, and create a film that emphasises the importance of all three, particularly in the life of Ebert.

The Importance of Films, and for that matter Film Criticism, is something that had always been debated. With Roger Ebert, as well as Gene Siskel, having lived that is no longer the case.