The doc is a fascinating insight into how individual choices can shape the news.
80
Film ThreatRob Rector
Film ThreatRob Rector
To both the filmmaker and subject’s credit, neither feel that the transition to Zoey should excuse past behavior, and the director lets her sit with her thoughts. She processes her actions in front of the camera as she surveys the wreckage of her life. This is what makes Whirlybird such a wholly unique story, ultimately resonating as a portrait of a deeply flawed person.
Quibbles aside, Whirlybird proves a memorably evocative time capsule of 1980s and ’90s Los Angeles and the people who made — and captured — the news, as well as a stirring portrait of regret.
63
Slant MagazineChuck Bowen
Slant MagazineChuck Bowen
At its best, Matt Yoka’s documentary vividly captures how personal demons shape creative output.
63
RogerEbert.comNell Minow
RogerEbert.comNell Minow
We cannot help wishing, as we do so often in watching what passes for news these days, that this story was told with more insight, context, and, well, focus.