Best Boy

Heartfelt doco on a 52 year old retarded man, Philly, whose parents have kept him to themselves. This doco explores Philly's new life as he makes contact with the outside world and the relationship he has with his parents who both pass away during the making of this doco.

I have lost count of the number of times I have watched this documentary. I rarely buy movies and yet this one I feel I have to have at my disposal for some reason. It touches a spot so deep in my soul I want to be sure I can always access that spot. I fell in love with all involved, including the gruff father.....who eventually allows his sweetness to show when he is too weak to fight it. I would not be surprised to hear that this documentary was added to your list of favorites as well.

I'm 51, and first saw this when I was 9. I can't remember if I've seen it more than once, but it is still so clear in my mind, I mean it made an IMPRESSION. Truly one of the most thought-provoking and heart-warming (but not in a treacly way) movies you will ever see.

This is an excellent film about the heartbreaking as well as the inspirational decisions that can and need to be made in life. Pearl's emotions (her happiness and especially her heartbreak) and the way they are captured not only by Wohl but by McDonough make this film a true masterpiece. I would recomend this to anyone, and its sad to see it has such a low rating on the database.

"Best Man", however, was not such an incredible film, and only when it is shown in conjunction with "Best Boy" could it garner any merit. The first fifteen minutes in particular seem to present Wohl as incredibly egocentric given the topic and situation of the film, and I truly wish I had not seen them.

No matter how light an existence may be, it does not lose the attribute of being irreplaceable, since every human being has a context that justifies their situation in the world and their place as an integral part of society. The perpetual yes that sustains the protagonist of Best Boy is a reminder to be optimistic in life despite adversities, which are inherent to the human condition. Although the documentary lacks aesthetic qualities, it manages to portray the arduous journey that leads to the independence of a man who has never stopped being a child, and who also ennobles those around him, starting with his family.