Friedkin Uncut

The best thing about this documentary on the life and films of William Friedkin is Friedkin himself. He comes across as a most engaging fellow. Not lovable mind you, or even very likable (not sure I'd like to have dinner with the guy), but most engaging. Whenever he is onscreen talking about art versus professionalism (hint: he prefers the later) or the silliness of awards shows or the over ratedness of rehearsals and multiple takes it is most refreshing. While valuing his craft Friedkin does not fool himself into thinking he is a Mastermind. Skilled entertainer will do him just fine and such modesty/honesty is most welcome in an industry that tends toward the overblown and the hyperbolic.

Still, I agree with a number of the previous reviewers who feel that this doc is on the thin side. I mean, the guy was married four times (one of them being JEANNE MOREAU, for cryin out loud) and had two kids. But aside from a throwaway remark by Damian Chazzelle none are mentioned. Sure would have been nice if we knew why the guy needed four tries to get the husband/wife thing right. And it would have been even nicer if we could have been privy to whether or not he was a good dad, especially considering the fact that he admired his own father. The film is titled "Friedkin Uncut" but it seems like they cut a lot. B minus.

PS...For the record, of the talking heads not named Friedkin my faves were Ellen Burstyn and Willem Defoe and my least fave, as usual, the windbag called Tarantino (who seems like he's trotted out for every post 1970s film doc).