Tell Me Who I Am

Werner Herzog chose not to share with the viewer the audio from the attack Timothy Treadwell and his girlfriend suffered. That is my review of this film.

It feels a bit contrived since the brothers work together and could've had this conversation anytime and might've made this to promote their book -- that said, it's a moving, unique emotional story, and important for anyone who has faced similar darkness that the brothers have.

A prime example of how an incredible story doesn't automatically translate into an incredible documentary. As good old Ebert used to write: "It's not what it is about. It's how it is about it." Or something to that effect. Anyway, even though it's longer than it needed to be, it's engaging and worth seeing.

Read the book, it's so much better.

The ethical themes introduced here are important and fascinating. Unfortunately, the film is simply not very well made. It feels both contrived, almost scripted, and just overall kind of tawdry. It drags a bit as well. It feels more like watching an episode of Dr. Phil. Additionally, the film's ending is rushed and leaves a lot of unanswered questions about the subjects--questions that really should have been covered. It's a rough film to watch. No real surprises and bad story development.

Although a sad and interesting story, I think pacing and editing held this one back a little. The philosophical questions it asks, and the dilemmas it puts you through is gripping. But something was just lacking.

This incredible story takes a philosophical turn that is as dark as it is ultimately moving.

Wow, that was hard to get through. I do think it was quite exploitative at times (like, why did I need to hear what Marcus had to say near the end? That was for Alex to hear), but it's a good documentary regardless.

Fascinating story mostly well told, but tends a bit towards tabloid TV at times.

Alex

Shattering, powerful film is one that shouldn't be "spoiled" in any way going in - suffice to say, the philosophical questions it raises about the power and importance of memory are fascinating, especially within the context of these brothers' lives; the spare and pared back film-making style does require the viewer to fully engage with the "perfect storm" confluence of events, but the reward is a brutal emotional punch which doesn't feel unearned by untoward manipulation. Remarkable stuff.

a bunch of motherfuckers

Heavy and interesting subject matter in this documentary.

The power of memory to shape, redeem or destroy your life. Gripping, heart wrenching story, told as if the brothers were sitting across from you in your living room until their face to face exchange which brings closure not only to both brothers but to the viewer.