The documentary reasons that Ebert's enthusiasm for wanting the painful and explicit procedures he daily endures following the loss of his lower jaw comes from long-time colleague Gene Siskel's withholding of his own brain cancer from Roger. To be sure the procedures make this a challenging documentary to watch and arguably take away from the life the movie intends to document. While we do get some of the biography presented in Ebert's book segmented as he did by chapters devoted to those closest to him, much of the detail is missing. This choice makes for a major distraction from Ebert's contribution. However, unlike the book, the movie tells us some of Siskel's background and kindles some interest in learning more about him. When will that bio debut? In short, the fascinating "Zelig"-like life of Ebert shines through despite the narrative choices.
Review of Life Itself
