Never Be Done: The Richard Glen Lett Story

This documentary exceeded my expectations! Most people have no idea what it's like to live with an addiction and this film gives us a raw, honest glimpse into Richard Glen Lett's journey. This is an important film because there are so many people battling addiction and/or mental health issues; those who've never lived through it easily judge or even worse, don't give them a second thought. Roy Tigue did an amazing job showing us Richard's journey and did not let him be forgotten.

This is one of those documentaries, like Hoop Dreams, where I found myself marveling that the filmmaker was there as extraordinary events played out. It's pretty rare to get to witness someone sink to the depths of alcoholism, much less to come out the other side, changed. As a culture, we have a long way to go to understand what addiction is, where it comes from, and how it plays out, and what any of us can do to support addicts. This doc provides a window into a story that's played out by millions of people every day. Whether you're an addict or not, we all benefit from the compassion this story elicits.

This story is powerful, honest, real, raw, and painful to watch at times (in the best way possible). Watching this man's fall, and then see him stand back up is a refreshing look at redemption, and a step towards changing the stigma of addiction and alcoholism. I respect that Roy Tighe remained strong in filming Richard without stealing his bottom from him; Roy kept a boundary there which helped Richard in the long run. Seeing who Richard is now gives hope to those who are still sick and suffering from this disease, showing that there IS a way out.

I went to the World Premiere at the Whistler Film festival. Standing ovation and I was right there with them standing, clapping and beaming with tearful joy for Richard and this powerful story!

Richard walks the tightrope of insanity in an attempt to keep from falling into the pits of alcoholic despair and homelessness. His daughter and his comedy seem to be the last thread of hope in an otherwise grave and hopeless situation. But even those cannot save him from fate. With the writing literally on the wall for Richard he still cannot see the problem (himself) let alone any solution. In an attempt to cling to the last rung of society, he feels he is unqualified to even participate in Alcoholics Anonymous. Banished from comedy clubs, kicked out of his apartment, we actually get to watch Richard bottom out. It is a rare glimpse of the train actually coming off the tracks. This rock bottom however becomes the solid foundation which Richard begins to rebuild his life. This humble redemption story is raw, heart felt, and is a fascinating look at the life of Richard Lett. Spectacular journey!