Dick Johnson Is Dead is an emotional and heartwarming documentary film directed by Kirsten Johnson, and starring Dick Johnson, Michael Hilow, and Ana Hoffman. Released in 2020, the movie has received positive critical acclaim for its unique and innovative approach to storytelling. The movie follows the life of Dick Johnson, a retired psychiatrist and widower in his eighties, who embarks on a journey with his daughter Kirsten Johnson to confront and come to terms with his own mortality. The film blends together fiction and reality in a compelling way, as it explores the themes of ageing, death, loss, and love through the lens of Johnson's life.
One of the most striking aspects of the movie is its dark humor and playfulness, which is evident from the opening scene as we see Johnson acting out his own funeral. Throughout the film, Johnson and his daughter stage various scenarios in which Johnson dies in different ways - from being hit by a falling air conditioner to falling down the stairs. These scenes are interspersed with Johnson's memories and reflections on his life, as well as his interactions with his daughter and other family members.
Despite the whimsical nature of some of the scenes, the film never shies away from the emotional impact of Johnson's eventual passing. As we follow him through his day-to-day life, we see the toll that ageing and illness are taking on him. We see his struggles with memory loss, mobility issues, and confusion, as well as the fear and anxiety that come with the knowledge that his time is limited.
At the heart of the movie is the relationship between Johnson and his daughter, Kirsten. Throughout the film, we see their bond growing stronger as they navigate their way through this difficult topic. The film captures the fragility and tenderness of their relationship in a way that is both moving and relatable. They share many touching moments throughout the film, and the love that they have for each other is palpable.
The film also grapples with the question of what comes after death. Through its creative use of special effects, we see Johnson's imagined afterlife, where he is reunited with loved ones who have already passed away. These scenes are poignant and bittersweet, as they remind us of the inevitability of death, but also of the comfort that can come from faith and a belief in something greater than ourselves.
Overall, Dick Johnson Is Dead is a moving and poignant film that explores the complexities of life, death, and love. It is a testament to the creativity and innovation of Kirsten Johnson, who has masterfully blended together fiction and reality to create a truly unique and unforgettable work of art. The film is sure to leave viewers both laughing and crying as they reflect on their own mortality and the relationships that matter most to them.
Dick Johnson Is Dead is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4 and a MetaScore of 89.
