Starring Jerry As Himself (2023) Poster

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10/10
Powerful piece of cinéma vérité
lighthousekeeeper8 May 2023
Starring Jerry as Himself is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that captivates the audience from start to finish. Director Law Chen and co-writer Jerry have created a unique hybrid format that seamlessly blends reality with fiction to tell a compelling and emotional story.

At the heart of the film is Jerry himself, an elderly Chinese immigrant who is unwittingly caught up in a criminal investigation. Through his own determination and the support of his family, he becomes an unlikely undercover agent for the Chinese police, risking everything to clear his name and protect his loved ones. The viewer is taken on a rollercoaster ride as Jerry's investigation takes him on unexpected twists and turns, with tension and emotion building until the powerful climax.

What sets Starring Jerry as Himself apart from other documentaries is its use of the hybrid format. The decision to have Jerry and his family star as themselves adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth that is rare in the genre. The actors who play the police and other characters are seamlessly integrated into the story, making it feel more like a cinematic experience than a traditional documentary.

The film also raises important questions about the nature of truth and memory. What is a true story? Can we trust our own memories? These questions are woven into the narrative in a way that is both thought-provoking and respectful of Jerry's experience.

Overall, Starring Jerry as Himself is a must-watch film that will leave a lasting impression on its audience. It's a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of family, and a shining example of the potential of the documentary genre.
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10/10
Best film I have seen this year
SaunderC31 July 2023
You figure out what is happening pretty quickly, but that's not the point.

This combination documentary with spy flick is funny, depressing, charming, hopeless, and intriguing all at once. And that is all without knowing the story behind it (look it up).

You also get the classic immigrant family story, with first and second generation Americans, as it addresses many middle-aged people's concerns about their aging parents.

If you are looking for a film that challenges your viewpoint on the world, takes and brings hope, and entertains you simultaneously. This is the film for you.

PS - Check on your parents.
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