Open Wide

As "Open Wide" (2024 release from the UK; 108 min.) opens, we are introduced to John and Mike Mew, a father and son. We then go back in time as we learn of John's modest beginnings, and how he ended up in the field of orthodontics, and "experimenting" on his 3 young kids, including Mike, in the early 80s... At this point we are 10 minutes into the documentary.

Couple of comments: this documentary is the feature length directing debut of Sara Goldblatt. Here she does a deep dive into the controversy surrounding the orthodontists John and Mike Mew. Of course I had never heard of them, but we learn that their "mewing" technique to lift the jaw line. Strange as it may be, apparently "mewing" has gone viral. The problem with all this is that, regretfully, it doesn't make for a great movie experience, unless I suppose you are someone who is into orthodontics, I had never thought about it before watching this, but I guess I can now say with confidence that orthodontics is wasted on me.

"Open Wide" was released by A24, meaning not just some third rate movie studio. It started streaming on Netflix a few days ago, and Netflix had recommended it to me based on my viewing habits (lots of documentaries). Usually Netflix is quite on target with its recommendations, but alas not this time. Of course don't take my word for it, so if you have any interest in orthodontics (or you think you do), I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.

This movie is both a really interesting deep dive into an arcane subject, and, more importantly, a great character study. Reminded me at times of Grey Gardens, King of Kong, even some of Errol Morris's quirkier movies.

It's funny and odd and manages to paint the two protagonists as hopeless Quixotes while simultaneously rendering a poignant image of a son who wants his father to have a legacy.

I was surprised to see some of the negative reviews here-it's like we watched a different movie. Made me want to write my own to even out the scales a bit. Really: I wish we had more thoughtfully-made, engaging docs like this one. Seems like they are fewer and farther between these days.

I started following Mew's methods at 17, and now at 21, my facial structure has visibly improved. My cheekbones are more defined, my jaw broader, and my teeth align better. Though progress has slowed, I still notice changes. It's never too late to start, and once you build up the right strength, it becomes second nature.

It's sad how pioneers like Mew often face resistance from society. You'd think we'd learn from history, but old habits persist. Yet, here we are, embracing and appreciating his groundbreaking work with gratitude.

History shows true visionaries often meet skepticism from traditional authorities. The scientific community sometimes rejects ideas unjustly. When Dr. Mew's contributions are acknowledged, they better give them a Nobel Prize.

So, Dr. Mew, keep pushing forward. The scientific community may be slow, but your perseverance will prevail. Thank you for challenging the status quo and paving the way for a healthier future.

I have worked in the field of dentistry for over 20 years. This documentary was absolutely fascinating to me. I felt strongly compelled to write a review because I find it misleading & quite sad when reviewers watch a program that holds absolutely no interest for them and they feel the need to give it, a very disappointing one star. Why do that? There are a lot of quacks in the field of dentistry, orthodontics, any specialty. This documentary really gives you a behind the curtain at everything that's involved in correcting occlusion and the aesthetics of having a beautiful smile. I know that personally if I had not had orthodontia, I would not be the person I am now smiling all the time friendly to everyone I wouldn't of had the opportunities that I've had to work front desk at an office and greet patients. A lot of people who have slightly crooked teeth have perfectly healthy teeth, and a great life. For others it's a game changer and really lowers their quality of enjoyment of life. I'd love to see more documentaries about the subject of dentistry, obviously.

I have been reading and watching videos on this topic for a few years now. It's exciting that a documentary like this can bring the information to a wider audience. I sure wish Dr. Mew had treated me when I needed orthodontic help! I'd be a different person now. I was one of those typical kids with an overbite who had two top teeth pulled and the top teeth pushed back to fit my receding chin.

I really feel that being "ugly" has harmed many of my opportunities in life. I try not to spend time regretting it, and of course my true friends love me as I am, but I was constantly picked on as a child, looked down on as a teen, and am usually disregarded as an adult. I've never been married and I think I might have been if I were a bit prettier (not discounting the fact that many people more homely than I are happily married...so who knows?). Being ugly does a lot for your character, of course, and I wouldn't want to be extremely pretty either, but I'd like to be closer to average.

The sinus problems, mouth breathing, snoring, etc. Haven't been a great experience either. Thankfully I discovered mouth taping 8 years ago and noticed immediately that I felt more refreshed in the morning. Still not great, and I recently decided I should get tested for sleep apnea (hasn't happened yet). But the cool thing is that mouth taping at night retrained me to the point where I realized maybe 4 years ago that I don't mouth breathe during the day any more. My normal relaxed position now is with my mouth closed, which brings many benefits. Before, it was simply impossible to keep my mouth closed without thinking about it constantly, and it wasn't comfortable. I'm 58, but I can even tell that my teeth have shifted. I'm not sure yet where this will end up, but I'm not going back to mouth breathing! Now I need to get serious about learning to mew. I'll try the Mews' (fairly new) app on my phone when I get a chance.