I don't recall ever seeing an episode of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood as a child, but after watching this documentary I feel more inspired by the host. At this time in America, this film is extremely relevant to society. The documentary delves into Fred Rogers's life and what drove him to create a space where he could teach children about philosophical subject matter. Director Morgan Neville (Best of Enemies: Buckly vs. Vidal, 20 Feet from Stardom, The Music of Strangers) paves the path of exploration for viewers to journey into the life and philosophies of Fred Rogers.
The film is interesting and brings up subjects that are still tough to understand today. Neville brings out the best in Rogers and makes the audience wonder if he truly could have been the image that Neville paints him in. The film covers most of Rogers's life, but pinpoints certain episodes of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood to create a satisfying documentary. At certain points, we get to see how Rogers tackled topics like love, death, and even the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion.
Enlightening interviews also create a more detailed journey through Rogers's life. These interviews range from his children, to his wife, to acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Rogers seems to have developed many close relationships throughout his life and Neville brings out the best in these relationships through personal interviews. Not only is this documentary built with personality, but it is inspiring throughout its heartfelt moments.
The Bottom Line: Morgan Neville creates an inspiring and thoughtful portrait of an American hero exactly when theater audiences need to see it.
Score: 8/10
The film is interesting and brings up subjects that are still tough to understand today. Neville brings out the best in Rogers and makes the audience wonder if he truly could have been the image that Neville paints him in. The film covers most of Rogers's life, but pinpoints certain episodes of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood to create a satisfying documentary. At certain points, we get to see how Rogers tackled topics like love, death, and even the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion.
Enlightening interviews also create a more detailed journey through Rogers's life. These interviews range from his children, to his wife, to acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Rogers seems to have developed many close relationships throughout his life and Neville brings out the best in these relationships through personal interviews. Not only is this documentary built with personality, but it is inspiring throughout its heartfelt moments.
The Bottom Line: Morgan Neville creates an inspiring and thoughtful portrait of an American hero exactly when theater audiences need to see it.
Score: 8/10