Gahan Wilson: Born Dead, Still Weird

Gahan Wilson: Born Dead, Still Weird is a highly informative and entertaining documentary that takes a deep dive into the twisted and extraordinary life and career of legendary cartoonist, Gahan Wilson. Directed by Steven-Charles Jaffe, whose previous works include Ghost and Star Trek, the movie showcases the immersive journey, achievements, and peculiar world of Wilson. This piece shines a light on Wilson's unique perspective on life that has not just infested, but defined his art, making him a household name across the globe.

Released in 2013, Gahan Wilson: Born Dead, Still Weird stars eminent faces like Lewis Black, an American comedian, author, and playwright; Stephen Colbert, a renowned television host, comedian, and author; and Guillermo del Toro, a prolific storyteller, filmmaker, author, and actor. These personalities provide their insight, thus contributing tremendously to the narration and exploration of Wilson's world, making the documentary a riveting watch.

The film begins with an introduction to Wilson's unusual birth, hence the title "Born Dead". Wilson entered life with a chilling cord wrapped around his neck, seemingly lifeless, hence why he humorously declares that he was born dead. This theme of the weird, of the dark, and of the surreal has been a steady influencer in Wilson's unparalleled observations and his adaptable reality. The title itself is a testament to Wilson's sarcastic humor that runs unfiltered through his collective body of work. Wilson's penchant for the weird and the macabre established him as a beacon for those in the American counter-culture scene and reinforced his position as a linchpin in the field of illustrative narration. Essentially, he gave life to thoughts people buried deep and dared not whisper.

The documentary further explores Wilson's early interest in the abnormal, embodying his distinct brand of humor that made him a popular cartoonist. Featuring an eclectic mix of his distinct cartoons, personal photographs, home movies, and interview footage with Wilson himself and those closest to him, the documentary unfurls a rich tapestry that beautifully encapsulates Wilson's journey. Conveying the personality of the man behind the peculiar artwork, the audience gets a glimpse of Wilson's struggle and how he used his unconventional wit to deal with life's absurdities.

His cartoons were unusual and grotesque but also incredibly thought-provoking, often providing hard-hitting commentary on society, life, and death. The documentary does a fantastic job of highlighting the strange and unique nature of Wilson’s signature style, featuring many of his political cartoons that played a significant role in shaping societal and political consciousness. The audience dives into Wilson's darker and humorous remarks on these serious issues, making the movie not only entertaining but also full of substance.

Lewis Black, Stephen Colbert, and Guillermo del Toro bring their distinctive perspectives, humor, and respect for Wilson's work to the narrative. Their personal stories, anecdotes, and reflections paint a picture of the profound impact Wilson's cartoons had on shaping their own humor, politics, and perception of the world. Their engaging discourse emphasizes the integral role Wilson played in humanity's narrative, offering viewers an enriched understanding of the profound effect of cartoons and humor in everyday life.

Gahan Wilson: Born Dead, Still Weird is more than just a biographical documentary; it is an immersive exploration into the life and mind of one of the most iconic cartoonists. It is a celebration of the bizarre and a tribute to a man who dared to challenge the norm with his dark humor and unique perspective on the world. Steven-Charles Jaffe's direction seamlessly combines interviews, art, and narration to deliver a documentary that is as intriguing as it is entertaining.

In conclusion, whether you are already a fan of Wilson's work or merely a lover of animation and cartoons, Gahan Wilson: Born Dead, Still Weird is an absolute must-watch. Not only does it brilliantly showcase the genius of an extraordinary artist, but it also goes beyond, exploring the depth of humor, life, and humanity. It's a uniquely funny, poignant, and insightful film that acknowledges the unique lens through which Gahan Wilson viewed and depicted the world.