
Is Believe: The Eddie Izzard Story Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2009)
The story of one person's triumph over adversity: cameras followed the comedian on a very stressful comeback tour and caught the story behind some of her best loved material en route. Prior to her Sexie tour in 2003 and under extreme pressure to write, she delved into her own life for inspiration. So began an accidental voyage into her past that paralleled her world tour and culminated in a moment of revelation about the source of her relentless drive. Film contains exclusive never-before-seen footage including the famous 'wolves' material, Izzard's first student sketches and unicycle-riding as a street performer in Covent Garden. Hilarious and moving by turns, an inspiring tale of how tragedy can be turned to laughter.
β¨ The Quick Verdict
If you are a fan of Comedy, Documentary cinema, then Believe: The Eddie Izzard Story offers a standard experience that justifies its existence in the 2009 landscape.
π₯ Target Audience
π Detailed Analysis
The Narrative Arc & Core Premise
In the evolving tapestry of Comedy, Documentary cinema, the 2009 release of Believe: The Eddie Izzard Story stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into The story of one person's triumph over adversity: cameras followed the comedian on a very stressful comeback tour and caught the story behind some of her best loved material en route. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Comedy, Documentary are tested.
The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "The story of one person's triumph over adversity: cameras followed the comedian on a very stressful comeback tour and caught the story behind some of her best loved material en route. Prior to her Sexie tour in 2003 and under extreme pressure to write, she delved into her own life for inspiration. So began an accidental voyage into her past that paralleled her world tour and culminated in a moment of revelation about the source of her relentless drive. Film contains exclusive never-before-seen footage including the famous 'wolves' material, Izzard's first student sketches and unicycle-riding as a street performer in Covent Garden. Hilarious and moving by turns, an inspiring tale of how tragedy can be turned to laughter."
Artistic Execution & Performance Study
A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. In Believe: The Eddie Izzard Story, we see Eddie Izzard utilizing their established screen presence to carry the story forward. It is a solid, workmanlike performance that serves the director's vision without overshadowing the larger narrative goals.
The direction by Sarah Townsend is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 102 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.
Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch
Is Believe: The Eddie Izzard Story truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Comedy, Documentary, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.
The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6.5/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.
Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision
At a deeper level, Believe: The Eddie Izzard Story explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2009 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Sarah Townsend respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.
The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.
Final Editorial Recommendation
Ultimately, Believe: The Eddie Izzard Story serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Eddie Izzard or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Believe: The Eddie Izzard Story is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.
β³ Time Investment
At approximately 1.7 hours, the film requires a standard time commitment.