A documentary that achieved its goal easily; to share with the audience the memories left behind by a great young man tragically taken from us to become a member of the infamous 27 Club; but more importantly, to get us to appreciate him, care about him both personally and professionally (as much as those of us who were never able to meet him in person can), and to pay homage to the positive difference he made in the film industry and to those he loved the most. From his touching hand written letters to his "Mamoola" to his Hollywood colleagues tearing up as they share memories of him; from the inevitably heart wrenching discussion of his struggle with cystic fibrosis to his forays into becoming a talented musician and part time photographer of the more lewd populations of Los Angeles; and of course a further exploration of his philosophies as an actor and as a person, to inhabit his roles fully, to push the limits of his performances, his more academically oriented obsession with film studies, all culminating in the tragically unfinished development of what was to be his directorial debut, "Travis" (homage to Taxi), these 90 minutes felt intimate and it was a privilege to be privy to the "behind the scenes" of a charismatic actor.
The only issue is that as a tribute, this documentary very quickly became what is called a hagiography, where nothing but the very best aspects of a person are shared. Maybe this is the compassionate way to do it; no need to further hurt his loved ones by bringing up the negatives. And it is not lying, it is only choosing to see the good parts. Right?
For a cynic like me, unfortunately, what it left me with was, yes, a greater appreciation for who this man was, but I question whether it was really a better understanding of the great Anton Yelchin. A better understanding of his positive aspects, which should not be minimized in any way, definitely. But what about his less than saintly feelings and moments and parts and thoughts? The realistic mind must wonder what his flaws were, so that there can be a more complete picture. This is not to say that his praise would be any less. On the contrary. Flaws are what makes someone human. And mortal.
Rest In Peace.
