Is the Man Who Is Tall Happy?: An Animated Conversation with Noam Chomsky

Is the Man Who Is Tall Happy?: An Animated Conversation with Noam Chomsky is a 2013 experimental documentary directed by the acclaimed French filmmaker Michel Gondry, featuring a series of interviews with famed linguist, philosopher, and political theorist Noam Chomsky. This animated documentary provides a unique look into the thoughts of one of the modern world's most respected intellects.

The documentary is not just another series of dialogues; it is an innovative examination of Chomsky's philosophies, theories, and personal history, presented artistically through Gondry's innovative hand-drawn animations. Unlike traditional documentaries, Is the Man Who Is Tall Happy? does not follow a standard chronological narrative rather adopts a fruitful exploration of conversation and animated embodiment of high-level abstractions in linguistics and philosophy.

Renowned for his work on Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and The Science of Sleep, Gondry leans heavily into his creative background to use animation to present and interpret Chomsky's intellectual ideas. The filmmaker's hand-drawn images function as visual representations of the sometimes highly abstract concepts that Chomsky discusses, turning those complex ideas into something more accessible and engaging for the audience. Through this unique approach, the film breaks academic boundaries and invites viewers to engage with Chomsky's ideas with fresh fascination.

Transparent in its approach, the film does not attempt to hide the fact that Gondry, despite his clear admiration for Chomsky, often struggles to keep up with the linguist's vast body of knowledge. Their interaction is honest and sincere, with Gondry oftentimes admitting his confusion and seeking further explanation or clarification from Chomsky. This organic and honest interaction between a world-known philosopher and a naturally curious filmmaker adds more layers of relatability and entertainment to the documentary.

The film is not only about relaying Chomsky's theories and philosophies, but it also touches on his personal life. Gondry makes attempts to humanize the esteemed figure, delving into aspects of Chomsky's biography, like his childhood and the passing of his wife. It showcases a lesser-known side of Chomsky, offering a more personal, intimate look.

The documentary’s title, "Is the Man Who Is Tall Happy?" is a query into the nature of human perception and understanding, subjects prevalent in many of the conversations between Gondry and Chomsky. These subjects, while complex, never feel tiring or overwhelming thanks to Gondry’s creative animation and unique style of presenting his interpretations of Chomsky's ideas.

Moreover, this animation style is fluid with a childlike charm that provides a delightful contrast to Chomsky's highly theoretical musings. Indeed, this visual supplementation is a central part of the film's appeal. Its colorful, evocative and often amusing interpretation of concepts as esoteric as generative grammar, cognitive spaces and linguistic tree structures, helps bridge the gap between the viewer and the radically profound thoughts of Noam Chomsky.

Gondry’s distinctive animation and energetic storytelling turn this documentary a true linguistic and visual journey into the mind of not just Chomsky, but Gondry himself. And while the filmmaker's doodle-like, spontaneous animations at times seem largely disconnected from Chomsky's words, they inject a playful randomness into the mix, which is all part of Gondry's intentionally chaotic charm.

The inclusion of theoretical physicist Richard Feynman, although labeled as a "star", is somewhat misleading as his presence occurs through referenced theories and ideas that are part of the greater discourse between Gondry and Chomsky. Still, for fans of Feynman, there's appeal in witnessing how his ideas on knowledge, science, and learning are woven into the philosophical and linguistic fabric of the conversations.

"Is the Man Who Is Tall Happy?" is a compelling journey into the realms of language, perception, and understanding, guided by the intellectual prowess of Chomsky and the creative ingenuity of Gondry. This documentary is a delight for those who are delighted with the deep exploration of thoughts, theories, philosophies, and the personal nuances of one of the world's most esteemed intellectuals. It leaves viewers with a greater appreciation for the beauty and complexity of language and the human brain.