Review:
The Documentary 'tell Them Anything You Want: A Portrait Of Maurice Sendak'
overall review score: 4.5
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
score is between 0 and 5
‘Tell Them Anything You Want: A Portrait of Maurice Sendak’ is a documentary film that offers an intimate look into the life, creative process, and legacy of Maurice Sendak, the acclaimed author and illustrator of children’s books such as ‘Where the Wild Things Are’. Directed by Spike Jonze and comedian Lance Bangs, the film delves into Sendak’s personal history, his approach to storytelling, and the themes that permeate his work, highlighting his impact on literature and popular culture.
Key Features
- In-depth interviews with Maurice Sendak himself, providing personal insights.
- Archival footage and photographs showcasing his creative process and personal life.
- Commentary from family members, friends, colleagues, and literary critics.
- Exploration of themes such as childhood fears, imagination, mortality, and artistic freedom.
- A mix of heartfelt storytelling, humor, and candid reflections by Sendak.
Pros
- Provides a comprehensive and intimate portrait of Maurice Sendak capable of engaging both fans and newcomers.
- Well-crafted narrative that balances personal history with exploration of creative themes.
- Rich visual content including rare archival footage enhances storytelling.
- Offers valuable insights into the art and psychology behind Sendak’s work.
- Inspirational for aspiring writers and artists.
Cons
- May be somewhat lengthy for viewers expecting a quick overview or lighter content.
- Some viewers might find the focus on darker themes like mortality challenging or emotionally intense.
- As with many documentaries, it may not appeal to those unfamiliar with Sendak's work.