Life Itself ( Steven James, 2014): USA

Reviewed by Shelby Harris at the Santa Barbara Film Festival 2015. 

Life Itself is a documentary film based off of film critic Rodger Eberts memoir, the film documents the the final few months of his life and legacy as well as the cultural impact he’s made on the lives of millions. Acclaimed for one of the most influential cultural voices in America, Rodgers journey takes his audience through moments of insight, laughter and heart break.

The film opens up with a posing voice over narration of Rodger, discussing the first time film has impacted his life with old photos and footage guiding the audience through the chronicles of his life. On a spiritual quest for love and acceptance Rodger finds his true talents as a critic for the cinema. First launching his career in the newspaper industry Rodger knew he had more destined for his future and moved his expertise as a young film critic to a television show.

Throughout the film there are cut in’s and outs of clips from Rodgers glory days staring as as television host along with partner Gene Siskel. Rodger was passionate for film and even through times of pain and his current condition, he never stopped doing what he loved.

Rodger kept his legacy alive by writing blogs with dedicated tributes. He inspired and acknowledged directors for their films based with depth, creativity and original scripts. The documentary contains interviews with directors such as Martin Scorsese ( The Wolf of Wall Street, GoodFellas and The Departed) Ava DuVernay (Selma) and Werner Herzog (Cave of Forgotten Dreams) whom all develop a close relationship with Rodger as his career progressed.

Rodger began writing with creativity and intensity, using his blog and social media as an outlet to escape his illness and disability. With no boundaries in his writing he challenged and accepted a variety of issues and standpoints addressed in today’s world and cinema. Criticizing with thoughtfulness and authenticity he continued to inspire readers across the globe.