Is John Bishop's Gorilla Adventure Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2015)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2015, John Bishop's Gorilla Adventure represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Documentary category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into John Bishop encounters one of the most endangered animals on Earth, and discovers they and his family have more in common than he ever imagined. 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: "John Bishop encounters one of the most endangered animals on Earth, and discovers they and his family have more in common than he ever imagined. Filming in the jungles of Rwanda for John Bishop’s Gorilla Adventure, the comedian realises adolescent male mountain gorillas are just like his teenage sons – bulging muscles but no sense. Plus they fart, flirt and pick their noses. We follow John as he joins a group of vets who have dedicated their lives to saving the, sadly, precious few mountain gorillas left in the wild rugged mountains and valleys between the borders of Rwanda, Congo and Uganda, which were made famous to UK viewers by David Attenborough’s iconic sequence filmed among them in the 1970s."

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 John Bishop, 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 Ben Duncan is marked by a steady and professional hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 47 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 John Bishop's Gorilla Adventure 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 mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 7.5/10 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, John Bishop's Gorilla Adventure explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2015 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Ben Duncan 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, John Bishop's Gorilla Adventure is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of John Bishop or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, John Bishop's Gorilla Adventure is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.