Becoming Barack

Becoming Barack, released in 2009, is an engaging and fascinating documentary that charts the iconic journey of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States. From his humble beginnings to his meteoric rise in the political arena, the film constructs a well-rounded portrait of a leader whose charisma, integrity, and ideals captured the heart of a nation and changed the course of American history.

The documentary shines the spotlight on various aspects of Obama's life; his early years as a community organizer in the South Side of Chicago, his time as a law student at Harvard, his stint in the Illinois Senate, and his presidential campaign. It reveals not only how the experiences meted out to him in these roles shaped his identity and political philosophy, but also how his experiences in turn influenced those around him.

The movie's narrative is woven together using interviews, personal anecdotes, rare footage, and carefully chosen words. The film features Barack Obama himself, offering a rare and direct perspective from the man of the moment. His words encapsulate the essence of his experience, providing viewers with a unique, first-hand look into his beliefs, principles, and motivations.

In addition to Obama, the documentary also incorporates invaluable insights from those who have been close to him, including Phil LaMarr, who provides the voiceover for a significant part of the narration, and Loretta Augustine-Herron, a former colleague from Obama's community organizing days in Chicago, whose recollections add a distinct layer of personal experience to the rich narrative.

Becoming Barack attempts to transport viewers into Obama's life, encouraging them to walk in his shoes and perceive the world through his eye. The film creates an ambiance that reflects Obama's composure, depth of perception, and profound commitment to his beliefs. It is a journey dotted with struggles, achievements, failures, and triumphs.

The documentary doesn't just chronicle Obama's political ascent; it also delves into his life as a student, community organizer, and law professor, showcasing how each of these experiences equipped him with the skills, knowledge, and perspective that would prove indispensable during his political tenure. It portrays Obama as a perennial learner, a passionate advocate for social justice, and a person of strong character, driven by a sense of purpose and unflinching conviction.

Becoming Barack also emphasizes the communal aspect of Obama's public life. It highlights how his engagement with different communities fostered a sense of solidarity and unity, a theme that would later become the cornerstone of his 'Yes We Can' campaign. It demonstrates how Obama's leadership style was a direct reflection of his belief in the power of collective action and shared responsibility.

The movie, nonetheless, doesn’t fail to underline the personal struggles that accompanied Obama's journey. It illustrates the challenges he faced as a young man trying to find his place in the world, as well as the hardships he had to grapple with on his political journey.

Visually, Becoming Barack is captivating, drawing upon a variety of multimedia elements to create an engaging and immersive viewing experience. The documentary leverages archival footage, photographs, and speeches to create a powerful visual narrative. The use of voiceovers and interviews lends an intimate and personal tone to the documentary, while the strategic musical choices bolster the emotive quality of the narrative. The film's visual prowess lies not just in its impactful storytelling but also in its ability to effectively evoke the era it represents.

Through its near-encyclopedic narrative and nuanced portrayal of one of the most influential figures of the 21st century, Becoming Barack presents viewers with an enriching exploration of the life of Barack Obama. The film invites the audience to witness, understand, and appreciate the journey of a man who, against all odds, emerged as a beacon of hope and resounding symbol of change.

Overall, Becoming Barack is a standout addition to the genre of political bioscope. It presents a multifaceted picture of Barack Obama, demystifying the man behind the political icon while shedding light on his journey, principles, struggles, and successes. It's a must-watch for those interested in politics, history, leadership, and the remarkable story of a man who inspired millions across the globe.