The Amazing Johnathan Documentary

I've never heard of the Amazing Jonathan, I'm not sure anyone in the UK has, thankfully the movie became less and less about him and more and more about making the documentary. I would have stopped watching if it had of been totally about him. With all these kind of films they seem to be made in the edit. It's hard to work out what's true but I enjoyed the overall film and Ben made the film enjoyable.

Not a fan of when documentarians turn the camera on themselves and that happened about 30 minutes in. Started off strong, but it just slowly fizzles out over the last hour.

There was a great story to be told here, but unfortunately this doc missed the mark.

What do you do when you're making a documentary and someone with more funding comes in and scoops your subject? You put them on blast and share the surreal experience of being boned for the world to see. The first documentary (actually the 4th to begin...WTF?!?) is straightforward and not really special, showing Johnathan's career, friendships, and struggles with his fatal diagnosis that he has outlived. This documentary starts with the same motives and then has to find a way to coexist, knowing that it can no longer maintain its original intent. Much like a documentary should, it captures real life, though at times is forcing itself along through prompting. There's a point toward the end where the story of disaster takes a hard turn that's a bit cringeworthy as the director himself admits, he made lots of mistakes in this effort. Not the horrible piece of trash that the rest of these reviewers are making it out to be.

I watched this movie this past weekend at the Boston Independent Film Festival. The entire theater full of people received it so well. The energy in the theater was palpable and you could tell everyone thoroughly enjoyed it. It had a PERFECT mix of mystery, comedy, poignancy, and wonderful story-telling. Ben Berman absolutely nailed this film given his many obstacles and dilemmas while filming. It was funny, entertaining, interesting, and just an overall wonderful watch. I'm giving it a 10 out of 10. There is nothing that could have been done any better.

Bravo, Ben!! I tried to find your email address to write you a direct message, but this is the best I could do. Amazing job at your FIRST EVER FEATURE FILM! You nailed it.

This documentary is a trick. A complicated truck with plot twists around every corner. Watch with an open mind and prepare to be entertained.