You know, the first time I saw this I only loved it; this means I simply thought it was awesome and was only going to buy one copy. I hadn't planned immediately on watching it over and over and over again... because there actually ARE some poorly put together HST films over the years by smaller venues. They are all fun HST documentaries, but just not slammed together into the right melt of cheese to sail you on a great ride. This film though, is good enough to actually live on it's own without the Dr's newly divine power. It takes you on a beautifully and emotionally charged journey through his life, starting at current day loss and memory, like the sad hopelessness of looking out your sunny morning backyard thinking of a lost loved one...to the beginnings of His ride....to the End again... always to the end... that strange and horrible narrowing of the tunnel where you realize that... oh s**t... the good Doctor is gone. If you don't like this movie or if you can watch it without tears of both joy and emotional hurt welling up (but not quite falling, you chump!)... then I hate you. I hate you with every ounce of energy and soul and muted word that a man and should churn up. The damned thing is actually put together with good enough visual appreciation with which to take a 1/2 hit of acid and enough good tunes to taste with some ok weed. Enjoy it... or go f**k yourself. Keep the Good Doctor Alive. Thank GOD for Johnny filming Rum Diary. Cheers...Read full review
Before watching this film I knew a decent amount about the father of Gonzo journalism, and everything I had learned seemed to suggest a man whose many contradictions made his overall nature hard to grasp. For this reason I praise this film for doing a remarkable job of really digging into the essence of all that is Hunter S. Thompson, including his writing, his lifestyle, his acquaintances, and primarily his impact upon America. Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S.Thompson methodically covers the bulk of Hunter's life from his boyhood to his untimely suicide. With interviews from many of his close friends and relatives, as well as some substantial political figures, the movie does a great job of putting his life in perspective. Consequently, it brings with it the energy and intensity that was pervasive in those times and places, like San Francisco in the early 60s. But Hunter's life is far more than sheer counterculture excitement, and the film covers the many events of civil disarray that Thompson fell witness to, and that shaped his cynical view of modern-day America. The film manages to draw many parallels to the afflictions of our nation today, such as the war in Iraq and Bush administration. It follows Hunter's life all the way to the end, and in spite of the last quarter of the movie being a bit too lengthy, closes decently. For its effectiveness and emotional force, this is a must-see for Gonzo fans.Read full review
This movie had a limited release in my neck of the woods. After seeing it, I decided it was one I must own on DVD, if it was ever released in that format. While it doesn't cover every nook and cranny of HSTs life, it does give the most complete picture of his life of any documentary about him that I have seen. Narrated by Johnny Depp, fans of "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" will feel right at home when he reads lines from Hunters work that accompany the stories. The low points are not overlooked or sugar coated. The last part covers his funeral, from planning to the actual event. Opinions will vary on which documentary about HST is best, but for me, this is it. Even if it's not your favorite, it's definitely a must have for any HST fan's collection. Also check out "Breakfast with Hunter", and "Buy the Ticket, Take the Ride", narrated by Gary Busey.Read full review
I lived in southern California at the time of his writing and covering bikers and sports racing as a photo journalist I know a ran into him on occasion. It is amazing how our lives paralleled.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
If your a fan of the good Dr. then 'Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson' is a must see! The movie tracks Thompson's writing career from beginning to end and looks at the events that shaped his views on his subject matter. Thompson friend Johnny Depp provides and excellent narration while Hunter's ex-wives, friends, politicians, and fellow co-conspirator Ralph Steadman make appearances. Overall an entertaining and insightful way to spend two hours.
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Best Selling in DVDs & Blu-ray Discs
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Save on DVDs & Blu-ray Discs