Life Itself

This is a combination of a biopic as well as a reality show about the film critic and writer Roger Ebert, who died this year.  Available On Demand now.  Directed by Steve James of Hoops Dreams fame, which is perfect for a combo of Chicago and reality.

Roger had thyroid cancer and had his lower jaw removed.  In the movie, you can see through his mouth back to the bandages on his neck which cover the hole where he receives his nutrition.  Shocking at first, after the film goes on, you get used to seeing it.  He uses voice recognition and computer writing and blogging to communicate.

As an experienced writer, he takes to the new form like its an old hand, which it really it.  We see his growing up and writing starting at a young age.  We see his film career and the two-edged sword of his TV partnership/professional rivalry with Gene Siskel  Like two brothers who don't like each other.

Very well done as it gives an insight into the personality of Roger Ebert.  It makes you like him and also know some of his faults at the same time.  A very fine tribute to a man who made a great contribution to American society.

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"Two Thumbs Up!"