Life Itself: Blu-ray Review
The Movie:
Life Itself is a documentary film that recounts the inspiring and entertaining life of world-renowned film critic and social commentator Roger Ebert a story that is by turns personal, funny, painful, and transcendent. Based on his bestselling memoir of the same name, LIFE ITSELF, explores the legacy of Roger Ebert’s life, from his Pulitzer Prize-winning film criticism at the Chicago Sun-Times to becoming one of the most influential cultural voices in America.
I remember being a kid and seeing At The Movies on TV and I there was something about people just talking about movies that got my attention. Soon enough I (just like everyone else) looked at Siskel & Ebert as the authority on film but for some reason I gravitated towards the opinion of Ebert. I think it was the way that he presented himself and his brutal honesty that got my attention. I really respected him and seeing this documentary made me respect him on a whole different level. He was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and even with his health problems he showed his love for film and writing and continued to review movies up until his passing on April 4th 2013. It really showed a true testament to his ability to want to have his voice heard even with him not being able to speak. This truly is a fantastic documentary that shows everything there is about Roger Ebert’s legacy and doesn’t hide anything at all. There are some darker moments as well as bright ones and this is an inspiring piece of work that deserves to be seen by any true movie lover. 10/10
Special Features:
Deleted Scenes – There are a good amount of scenes here that pretty good but others that seem to repeat things that were already mentioned in the film so I can see why they were cut.
Sundance Tribute – A nice tribute that was made on the occasion of Ebert posthumously recieving the Sundance Vanguard Award.
Interview With Director Steve James – James, very honestly and sincerely, gives his thoughts on the experience of making this film.
AXS TV: A Look At Life Itself – The usual AXS promo that is included that features clips and interviews from the film.
