Bodyguards: Secret Lives from the Watchtower (2016) User Reviews

an ok documentary

[Mcduff3601 · 6/10 · 27 April 2018]

I don't know what it was about this documentary but I found it not holding my attention. Could have been my mindset or just the content I am not sure. They tried showing different aspects of security from celebrities bodygaurds to bodygaurds that are in war zones.

I only found a couple of the segments interesting, Nelson Mandella's bodygaurds and the mob guys. The rest I found myself asking when those other guys would be back on.

It was well put together and edited but I just found it not for me. So couldn't recommend it.

Walking a fine line

[kosmasp · 7/10 · 24 January 2018]

It's about being close to someone but also having a distance to them and being professional about your job. It's not an easy task and you can't just put someone by your side as Justin Bieber himself realized (his own words, after having a friend who may have looked intimidating, but did not have experience in dealing with a really large crowd of fans).

But Bieber is not the only one in this, there are also other people who get their time. There is also the music when there is no narration (good job by Kim Coates, an actor you may know from Sons of Anarchy, other TV shows or movies), which may irritate some people. Also the fact that we also delve into war zones, might not be what some may expect. But whatever jumps this may seem to make to things you didn't expect, it also gets us into the mindset of a bodyguard. But even there, you have different approaches. Not everything can be covered, but a lot is. Really enticing if you are interested

A World That Is Worth Seeing

[ditimely · 7/10 · 8 July 2017]

I thought this movie was very informative and interesting unlike a certain reviewer that gave this two stars and called it propaganda. There is nothing about this movie that is propaganda. If anything it shows a negative light on Blackwater. The only thing I didn't really like about this documentary was the part about Weeks, Whitey Bulger's bodyguard or right hand man. It just didn't seem to fit into the rest of the film. I love the candidness at the end of the movie from 50 cent's former bodyguard. There is also some history here with Nelson Mandela and his bodyguards, both black and white. I have a new found respect for the bodyguards that protect the celebrities and the egos surrounding them. Give it a watch and I hope you enjoy it.

Not a documentary, this is propaganda!

[Sam667 · 2/10 · 11 May 2017]

I can't believe all the reviews about this so-called documentary. A lot of the users who wrote a review, just wrote one review ever, about this "movie", seems kind of strange to me and not very believable nor helpful. So let me get you some perspective on this. This is clearly not a documentary, it's much more like propaganda for US military and/or dubious companies like "Blackwater", which have killed civilians in their past! And Kim Coates as a narrator is just laughable at best, because when I hear him talk about "demented motherf**ers" as the enemy and stuff, that's just too much and not objective at all. So, thinking people beware and stay clear of this mess! 2/10

Misleading

[ersbel · 13 August 2017]

Nothing secret. Actually, the secret is hidden away than attention is drawn to something else. So there is nothing spicy about the life of Justin Bieber. A big guy, hired to beat other guys who is going to tell you that it is hard to make it as a bodyguard as in protection for a famous person and not mall security. And yea, it might be weird to think otherwise. Nothing new. Nothing special. And certainly nothing secret. This is actually a dull advert to some protection companies.

Contact me with Questions, Comments or Suggestions ryitfork @ bitmail.ch

What A Mess.

[helenahandbasket-93734 · 1/10 · 19 August 2020]

The handheld feel to this is nauseating, Kim Coates is laughable (at best), and the high review scores are what I'd guess as fans of Justin Bieber's.

I actually felt nauseous after ten minutes- the shaky, handheld feel to this is just too much. There's nothing edgy or artistic about this method when it makes you feel like you're on a cheap carnival ride.

Kim Coates PLAYED a lawless thug on SOA, that does NOT make him one, nor does it give him one ounce of 'street cred'. Listening to him trying to swear with any credibility is hysterical; like hearing an 8-year old trying out his first curse words.

The 'directors' last name is Bieber, so I'm going to guess he's some relation to Justin, therefore making him some kind of documentarian. Maybe just stick to nonsensical blather on his relative that the teenagers fawn over and be done with it, because telling a compelling story is not his thing.

This tells us nothing about what bodyguards/personal security do- it is an incredibly interesting story that I think many would like to see, but this isn't the story. It lays out like an infomercial for firms who do the work with little/no insight into what actually happens.

Pass on this wasteland and watch something else.

Very cool look at the industry

[jluck-77398 · 9/10 · 5 December 2017]

Didn't know much about this world and was happy they looked at all the varying degrees of Bodyguards. Definitely would not want this job... seems like they can't even have a life of their own. Seems like a lot of people had issue with the Blackwater piece. I am not a fan of these guys but don't think anything was stated other than the facts. Don't think there were too many "secrets" shared, but still thought it was real entertaining. Loved Kim narrating too. SOA!

Bodyguards: Secret Live from the Watchtower

[vickakaletris · 9/10 · 8 December 2016]

The movie was an excellent way to show the viewers how much time and work goes into being a bodyguard. This film really grips you from the very beginning straight till the end. People don't believe how much bodyguards can change a persons life and protect them, they aren't just protecting them they protect their mind and heart. It talks about attributes that these bodyguards bring to play and how they give up most of their life to travel and protect these people. Recommend you watch so you can see these attributes because it is very true. These bodyguards show a lot of sacrifices and put forward others above them at all times. This is really moving and grabs the audience attention because each of the individuals being protected are still normal people in reality. Security has evolved over time has it shows Nelson to Justin and how they are protected and safe. The movie not only talks about bodyguards but gets insights of famous people, on of them being the biggest singer, Justin Bieber. Which everyone can relate to people society has seen Justin grow up in the spotlight. As well, entertaining and educational all in one movie. This movie is a really great perspective and gives us an insider on what it is like to be in their shoes. I suggest it to you guys if you are interested in viewing how bodyguards really have a powerful impact on these people.

Excellent movie

[skmom-85744 · 10/10 · 14 December 2016]

This movie is a fantastic way to show the audience just how much work and time goes into being a bodyguard. They are constantly putting their own lives on hold and lives on the line while protecting the life of another. I certainly have a lot more appreciation and respect for what they do after watching this movie.

I would actually like to see this made into a TV series as I was entertained throughout the movie and found each story interesting. I feel there is a lot more stories to be told.

I would definitely give this movie a 10/10 and would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a great movie! 👍🏻

Pretty wild

[staceblack · 10/10 · 23 December 2017]

Best part was all of the different viewpoints. Blackwater guys may be shady as hell but it is what it is... this doc at least shows what life is like for them. Kim Coates has an awesome voice that seemed perfect for the film. Bulger story has been told... but haven't heard this side. Pretty cool

Life of Bodyguards

[gleessar · 10/10 · 8 December 2016]

I now understand what it looks like to be in the life of a bodyguard. My dad has been a security guard and found that really tough but that is nothing compared to what bodyguards have to do I now realize that. Bodyguards should be known as national heroes because they have to deal with paparazzi, fans and a lot more. Bodyguards now have a huge amount of respect from me and my friends because of this movie. This movie has inspired me to become a bodyguard. The movie most of all taught me to respect them especially with all the crap bodyguards who work for famous people have to put up with. Personally I don't know how bodyguards could put up with the violence, stalkers, isolation, and potential loss of life everyday because of their jobs. Bodyguards do not get enough respect but I think if more people watched this movie their opinions would change.

I love this movie!

[justybismyworld · 10/10 · 16 December 2016]

I waited and waited for this movie to be released! I watched it as a nice break from revision! It is such an interesting film, I never realized how much work went into being a body guard. This film is also A great watch if you are a fan of Justin!

I especially liked the part with Justin in, it showed the purpose world tour which I recently went to watch 5 times in the UK, I was front row for 1 of the shows and saw Justin's security guard who was featured in the movie. It was nice to know the role that he plays in Justin's everyday day life but also when he's out on tour! You also get to see a number of other celebrities that have needed body guards. This movie also explains about hiring and training of body guards!

highly recommend

[sventre · 8/10 · 14 December 2016]

This movie is an interesting concept. These bodyguards put their life on the line everyday protecting these important people. Watching the behind the scenes and listening to their interviews is incredible. Bodyguards, I think are very unrated, until of course you watch this movie and actually see what they go through and deal with everyday. This movie needs to get a lot more credit because these people put a lot out for others. I always thought just big, tall, husky men can be bodyguards however that is just not the case. When duty calls, duty calls. Shoutout to Mikey!! You're my favorite. Thank you for all that you do!

Watch this film!

[anteater-04995 · 10/10 · 16 December 2016]

If you are in any doubt, watch this film! It is very interesting to know what goes on behind the scenes in protecting celebrities.

Not only do these body guards protect celebrities from horrible people but from their own fans. This was a very informative documentary. I thoroughly enjoyed this film. It makes you realize how much protection Celebrities actually need. Especially with social media now a days, that makes it harder for the body guards. This documentary covers a wide range of celebrities and the different protection they require. Being a body guard is a full time job, I admire the work of these bodyguards.

incredibly interesting

[gilsimmons1 · 10/10 · 13 December 2016]

Very interesting to see ALL sides of the business. From guys in life and death situations in war zones to protecting the world's most popular political figure Mandela. Super interesting watch. I personally enjoyed the Anton story most as it gives us a glimpse into what the traditional celebrity bodyguard life could be. Whitey Bulger's bodyguard was surprisingly well spoken for a dude that has broken so many skulls. Good to see the women get some shine in this movie as well. I remember female bodyguards on Gaddafi in Libya - wish they spoke on that a little bit more. Maybe number 2? Could see this as a TV series.

amazing movie

[elizarcrane · 10/10 · 8 December 2016]

Bodyguards: Secret Lives from the Watchtower is an amazing movie!! It is so informative and interesting. I bought it on iTunes and have watched it twice already and i've showed my whole family (they also love it)! It's definitely been my favorite movie this year and I don't think i'll ever stop watching it! It really does deserve 10/10 and if anyone gives it less then I'm not sure why. Well done to everyone involved in making this. we can clearly see a lot of hard work was put into this movie and it was worth every second!! i really recommend this movie to anyone and everyone. I just sorted out my Christmas present to myself and it won't go untouched or unwatched. I can't wait to show all my friends this amazing movie and promote it so it becomes bigger! Definitely worth every penny I spent. I hope there's a Bodyguards two!!