Film Review – Gore Vidal: The United States of Amnesia

How does one even attempt to compact the life and times of author Gore Vidal into a documentary that runs less than 90 minutes? I don’t envy director Nicholas D. Wrathall, who struggles to mount a comprehensive understanding of one of the most complex (and catty) men of the 20th century. More of an overview than a proper dissection, “Gore Vidal: The United States of Amnesia” liberally shaves off more than few highlights and lowlights from the subject’s life, electing to transform into a political documentary, taking a look a Vidal’s history of outspoken behavior when it comes to the leadership of the U.S., and his abyssal knowledge of the nation’s past. It’s not a filling cinematic meal, but juicy morsels of candor and a chance to acquire a deeper appreciation for Vidal’s epic ego are worth the price of admission. Read the rest at Blu-ray.com