The Devil and Daniel Johnston
Anyone seen this? I really recommend it.
i watched this feature length documentary couple of nights ago (the missus' call in fairness) and have to say i was astounded by it. Id never heard of this guy before but he is/was a genius artist/singer/songwriter who suffers from manic depression and paranoid delusions. He recorded his entire life on cassette tape and his early life on film.
I couldnt take my eyes off it. A true nut case genius - Cantona is a fraud compared to this guy.
Anyway, i found this review of it on imdb today which explains it a bit better than i can...
Jeff Feuerzeig weaves this material seamlessly into what is one of the most emotionally wrenching films I've seen in the last year and one of my favorite documentaries ever. It is hard to compare this film with documentaries like those of Michael Moore which are comedic and topical, or those of Errol Morris, which tend to focus on issues and facts. This documentary brings emotional threads and creativity into play in a way that dissolves the usual harsh contrast between a story and it's telling. You forget you are watching a documentary film, and become immersed in Daniel's life. Daniel's effect on those around him is interwoven with his own recordings. His family and friend are there to add to his story to show how his life is reflected upon them. Feuerzeig use of Daniel's parents narrative is simply masterful - it provides important information, and at the same time illustrates the the emotional turmoil his illness causes in the lives of those that love him. Daniel's family is portrayed from the early period of his illness when they have no idea what mental illness really means, to the present time when they become his supporters and advocates. Eventually, family and friend's are shown coming to terms with Daniel's mental illness, and experience their own emotional growth as well.
check it out.