$ellebrity is suppose to be a critical look at the media focus on celebrity, which is a very serious issue. Many in the public are more aware of who someone famous is dating than what genocides or wars are going on in the world. The documentary does manage to put the phenomenon in a historical context, but the problem lies with how it is made. It is done in tabloid style.
Sensational anecdotes and the importance of what famous people think is the focus. The Hollywood elites do have a valuable perspective, but their words shouldn't carry all the weight. Some of them are unsurprisingly overwrought, particular Jennifer Lopez. The girl from the Bronx who so badly wanted to be famous, can't stop complaining about her life in the film. Being that well-known is a burden, and living without anonymity is difficult, but they knew it came with their field. They were aware of what they were getting into. Sociology experts on the effects of fame could have added some depth to these interviews.
What it comes down to, is that $ellebrity doesn't have anything important to say. Yes, paparazzi act uncivilized and seek to make-up stories, but what part of the media doesn't? With the industry having been taken over by corporations, the bottom line rules over all decisions, and people want simple, outrageous stories. The documentary ends by blaming the readers; however, they aren't really the source of the dilemma. The pure focus on the cash is. Kevin Mazur should have taken a cue from his title.
