True/False Films

Gonzo

In person: Alex Gibney (Saturday showing only).

True Vision Award Screening. During Hunter S. Thompson's 1970 campaign for mayor of Aspen, James Salter recorded an ad for him: "Hunter Thompson is a moralist posing as an immoralist. The only thing against him is that he's a visionary." Lost in the portrayals of Thompson as a trickster, dope fiend (which he was) and threat to the American way of life was an essential truth: the man was a trailblazing journalist, cultural critic and, as Alex Gibney's film reminds us, the staunchest of patriots. Gonzo weaves together interviews with Jimmy Carter, George McGovern, Tom Wolfe and Jann Wenner, a rich selection of Thompson's own writings (voiced by Johnny Depp), fantastic archival footage (including an appearance on the game show To Tell the Truth) and a pitch-perfect rock score. Eye-opening and honest, Gonzo will make you wish Thompson, who committed suicide three years ago, was still around, turning his laser-sharp gaze upon the absurdities of American power. (JS)