Review of Life Itself (2014) by Alasdair B — 26 Mar 2015

"Life Itself'' is based on the book by Roger Ebert of the same name. This film is a documentary on the life and work of Ebert. He sadly passed away back in 2013. This documentary was made to honor his extraordinary life as one of the best American writers and film critics of US history. He is the most iconic film critic in America. During the final several years of his life, Robert struggled with cancer of the thyroid and salivary glands. This required surgery in 2002. His throat and jaw had to be partially removed. This rendered him unable to speak and eat normally. Yet his fantastic writing lived on, and still lives on today. LifeItself4-600.

Roger began writing at a young age. He loved writing and he loved films. For decades he wrote film reviews for the papers. He and a close friend and colleague named Gene Siskel, hosted a film reviewing show together. Gene and Roger were very popular, for their show was watched by many across the country. They talked in depth about what film they loved or didn't love. Sometimes agreeing, sometimes completely disagreeing. life-itself.

This particular documentary was very touching. Roger is truly an inspiring figure. He was a brilliantly honest writer with a love for movies. Seeing a man in the midst of such pain and health issues being able to go on, is truly amazing. He was so dedicated to writing. This documentary is very well made and put together. The director and everyone involved did a tremendous job.

Films are important in our culture. I know Roger undertood this. Seeing an audience react the same way you are, going on a journey together in a theater is something special. It's a way of connecting to our fellow human beings. We all love seeing a film that touches us in some way. Films have inspired so many in so many differing ways. The words of Ebert will live on, and his love for cinema will always be remembered.