Getting Gilliam

Getting Gilliam is a 2005 documentary directed by Vincenzo Natali about the famously eccentric and visionary filmmaker, Terry Gilliam. This is not a conventional documentary that provides a chronological study of the subject's life; instead, it captures the backstage antics and creative process behind Gilliam's devoted endeavor to make his film project "Tideland."

Mitch Cullin, the author of the novel "Tideland," upon which Gilliam's film is based, and Brendan Fletcher, one of the stars of the film, appear in this behind-the-scenes look. They give a first-hand account of what it's like to work with a director who, despite numerous professional setbacks and brushes with the Hollywood system, continues to push cinematic boundaries.

The title, "Getting Gilliam," suitably captures the essence of the film, which aims to get under the skin of Terry Gilliam, understand his creative thinking process, and provide viewers with an insight into his directorial style and the way he brings his unique vision to life on the silver screen. It offers an exclusive opportunity to see Gilliam in his element, behind the camera, steering the narrative of a film that is very close to his heart.

As one could expect, the documentary is permeated with Gilliam's characteristic wild imagination and absurdist sense of humor, which have become hallmarks of his work and have garnered him a devoted following. The intimate, fly-on-the-wall approach of the documentary allows viewers to view the various challenges, inspirations, frustrations, and triumphs that come hand in hand with the creative process.

The film is as much a character study of Gilliam as it is a study of the film-making process itself. It gives viewers a rare peek behind the curtain of the often chaos-ridden world of film production, examined through the perspective of a director who thrives in such an environment and consistently sets out to disrupt the status quo.

Getting Gilliam positions itself as an indispensable companion piece to "Tideland," giving fans a decidedly more intimate means to appreciate Gilliam's film. It showcases the director's unyielding commitment to his artistic vision, despite working within a notoriously difficult industry that often rewards formula over innovation.

The significant contributions of Mitch Cullin and Brendan Fletcher should not be understated. They provide keen insights and anecdotes about their engagement with Gilliam narrating their personal experiences and detailing the strange and wonderful journey of bringing the novel to life on screen.

Throughout the documentary, we see Gilliam's relentless optimism and unflagging resilience, character traits that have seen him through many a troubled production and have earned him a mythic status among filmmakers. The documentary goes off the beaten path to paint an engaging portrait of an artist who refuses to compromise his artistic integrity and enthusiasm despite the odds.

Getting Gilliam is an engaging portrait of one of cinema's most potent and tenacious visionaries. It is a must-watch for film enthusiasts who appreciate unique filmmakers who march to their own beat, and for those who enjoy a good behind-the-scenes look at the often-chaotic yet fascinating world of making movies.