Robert Downey Sr.

Wow. I have to admit never seeing any of the movies featured but can identify many of the cast as movers and shakers in the industry. Testament to a man who made movies for the pure pleasure of movie making and challenging the perceptions of others. Family and friends contributing to a precis of a craftsman and a Son charting his final farewell to a Man who allowed him live his own life.

Many time I recognised parallels in the relationship between Father and Son and my own parent & myself (sudden death syndrome) and that last 'interview' where Jr 'knows' is touching as it is shared with Jr's Jr. I can only conclude that when Sr's mind went elsewhere it was back to the time when editing of his segment was in process.

At times poignant, mostly humorous, this end-time journey was something I would not usually watch but I am so glad I did, such creativity.

In "Sr.", Robert Downey Jr. And Chris Smith present a unique and personal approach to a bio-doc about Robert Downey Sr., the filmmaker and father of the famous actor. Shot in black-and-white, the film captures the intimacy and complexity of their relationship, as well as Downey Sr.'s artistic process. The inclusion of alternate versions of certain scenes and discussions about the framing of others adds to the documentary's focus on the art of filmmaking. Despite some potential areas for deeper exploration, the emotional access given to Smith by the subjects and the power of finality as Downey Sr. Faces his own death make for a moving and thought-provoking viewing experience.

I came across this by accident, and am SO glad I did. An absolutely honest, touching and truly raw look at an unconventional father/son dynamic. A father and son, who, despite their seemingly dysfunctional and unhealthy relationship, possess a wholly unconditional love, affection and mutual respect for each other. A truly beautiful and touching love letter from a son to his father, "hero". Thank you so much for reminding us that our connections are what are truly important at the end of the day. I love how much Jr loves Sr. I have ALWAYS been a Jr fan, and this film has welcomed me into an honest relationship, with all of its ugliness.

Time is finite, archives are what one makes of them, and child parent relationships vary by example. The Downeys exemplify this. And kudos to Jr for making "Sr," because it is a gem.

The forest view that RDJ provides of his father in his twilight years is as much a love language and path to understanding as it is a finessed effort to balance and setting the bar of creativity and life's imperfections for his own children.

Plus it's in black & white. Mostly. The self-aware choice of b & w elevates the subject imo, and truly provides a greater measure of reverence and artistry.

This documentary is the best example of following your art, following your heart, and never stop pursuing the next opportunity. Film, family, self-reflection.

I remember like it was yesterday the day that I discovered Robert Downey Jr. On film. I was only 15 years old when I saw Iron Man 2. I remember I turned to my friend and said, "who is that?" She knew who he was and had already been a fan of his. Since that day, I became an aficionado when it came to his films. I found his backstory to be very interesting and how although he had endured a lot of hardship he came back with a vengeance and turned out to be the highest paid actor and our beloved Tony Stark/Iron man. This film binds together the love of him and and his father. It's a must watch! :)