Let's begin by summing up my knowledge and interest in Anthropology: none and non existent. But I am a sort of filmmaker and so I am a documentary addict. I'm also a seeker of deeper knowledge of Civilization specifically, man's concept of justice. How have I missed Anthropology?
This is a story of Malinowski who apparently is to Anthropology what Turing was to my field of Computer Science, or Adam Smith was to Economics. It's hard to imagine the field without them. Malinowski was evidently the first person to go and sit in one spot and live and fully participate in the culture of his subjects, who he called "savages." His work and life is related through his great grandson who I will add has done an immense service in the production of this controversial film biography.
I say controversial because the Malinowsi after becoming a rock star in the world of Anthropology was given his comeuppance by his critics. Eventually through the publication of his private diaries, some very controversial views are exposed. Ill leave it there so as not to include a spoiler. But I was shocked. Even the story by which his diaries are published becomes an interesting rabbit hole exploring the transfer of knowledge between generations.
I'm really not sure how to describe this film. It's changed the way I view western civilization and how I can modify my own perspectives. It invites the viewer include objective analysis of our American culture that we are immersed in every day.
It might get a little boring at times but hang in there for the cemetery scene at the end. Malinowski speaks to us from the grave. At 0$ on Amazon Prime I think you'll find this erudite, cerebral, and at times even amusing documentary, well worth the cost of admission. 7/10 stars.