Is Habit Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2002)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Documentary cinema, the 2002 release of Habit stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into HABIT is an autobiographical documentary that follows the current history of the AIDS epidemic along several trajectories. 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: "HABIT is an autobiographical documentary that follows the current history of the AIDS epidemic along several trajectories. The organizing structure is built around the daily routine of the videomaker -- a veteran AIDS activist in the U.S., and a person who has been living with AIDS for over ten years. As the videomaker moves through his day, attending to mundane errands, eating, taking pills, having conversations with friends (some who have diseases like AIDS and Breast Cancer, and others who are healthy), memories of a recent trip to South Africa reoccur and interrupt the routine. In South Africa, the videomaker meets people with AIDS, fighting to get access to the same life saving drugs that he depends on to survive. It is estimated that there are over four million people infected with HIV in South Africa. The vast majority of people with AIDS in Africa do not have access to medical treatment."

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. The presence of Gregg Bordowitz provides a necessary level of professionalism to the production, even when the underlying script struggles to maintain a consistent tone. It is a testament to their skill that they remain the most engaging element of the film.

The direction by Gregg Bordowitz 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 53 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 Habit 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 worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 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, Habit explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2002 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Gregg Bordowitz 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, Habit is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Gregg Bordowitz or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Habit is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.