Is What Are We Doing Here? Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2008)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2008, What Are We Doing Here? 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 WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE? is a controversial documentary about why after 50 years of Western involvement, billions of dollars in foreign assistance and countless promises, Africa is still so poor. 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: "WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE? is a controversial documentary about why after 50 years of Western involvement, billions of dollars in foreign assistance and countless promises, Africa is still so poor. The film tells the story of 3 brothers and a cousin who travel across Africa in an attempt to understand one of the great problems of our time, the failure to end poverty in Africa. Shot on location in 12 countries, WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE? transports you into the shocking and heart wrenching world of African poverty and the multi billion dollar aid and development industry dedicated to fighting it."

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 ensemble, led by the ensemble cast, delivers a professional and engaging performance that satisfies the requirements of the Documentary genre. While it may not reinvent the wheel, the commitment to the material is evident in every frame.

The direction by Daniel Klein 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 82 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 What Are We Doing Here? 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 5.5/10 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, What Are We Doing Here? explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2008 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Daniel Klein 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, What Are We Doing Here? 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 the ensemble cast or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, What Are We Doing Here? is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.