Is Better Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2019)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Better, a standout production of 2019, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Documentary landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Founder of Wellness Engineering and New York Times Bestselling author Jonathan Bailor shares how personal tragedy led him to dedicate his life to finding a better way to eat, think, and live that reverses the causes and symptoms of diabetes and obesity (Diabesity). As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of 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: "Founder of Wellness Engineering and New York Times Bestselling author Jonathan Bailor shares how personal tragedy led him to dedicate his life to finding a better way to eat, think, and live that reverses the causes and symptoms of diabetes and obesity (Diabesity). Featuring expert interviews on-location at Harvard Medical School with Dr. David Ludwig, Dr. JoAnn Manson, Dr. Kirsten Davison, and Dr. John Ratey, along with intimate testimonials of everyday Americans, we see the pain and struggle of the old-fashioned and ineffective “calories in, calories out” model, expose the lies that led to it, and provide a proven, practical, and pleasurable alternative. BETTER culminates in offering a proven path toward better living by introducing revolutionary methods to lower the body weight “Setpoint” through simple, evidence-based solutions that everyone can use to optimize their current diet to prevent and reverse many of today’s most common diseases."

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. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Jonathan Bailor, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary Documentary. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.

The direction by Justin McAleece 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 104 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 Better 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 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 7/10 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, Better explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2019 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Justin McAleece 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, Better 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 Jonathan Bailor or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Better is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.