Winnebago Man

Winnebago Man, directed by Ben Steinbauer, is a 2009 documentary film that provides an often humourous, at times poignant, exploration of the phenomenon of viral videos and their unexpected effects on the people portrayed in them. The film follows the story of Jack Rebney, infamously known across the internet as the "Winnebago Man," whose hilarious outtakes from an RV sales video in 1989 made him an unwitting star of the fledgling digital video world.

The film commences with a look at the beginning of vidoe viral culture when home videos were frequently pirated and traded among friends, long before technologies like YouTube and social media. Steinbauer, who also serves as a co-writer and our narrator throughout the film, is intrigued by the unexpected fame of Rebney. This curiosity drives him to find out more about the man behind the clips that have amused millions of people worldwide.

Upon his search, Steinbauer discovers Rebney living a hermit-like life on a mountain top, far removed from voice of being the viral sensation. Jack Rebney, originally the spokesperson for Winnebago Industries, comes across as a ‘mad as hell' public figure, who is embittered with the attention brought by his viral fame. He became notorious for his irritated and profanity-laden outbursts while trying to film an industrial promo for the RV brand. These outtakes were later compiled into a video known as "Winnebago Man," amusing viewers with its exceptional humor and glaring expressions of frustration.

Steinbauer's journey within the movie takes an interesting turn as he befriends Rebney. Over the course of their time spent together, viewers are allowed a glimpse into the complexities and contradictions of Rebney's temperament and life, peeling back the layers of the internet caricature to reveal the man underneath.

While the film initially capitalizes on the outlandish humor found in Rebney's outrage and passion, Winnebago Man evolves into a deeply felt and meditative piece about the nature of celebrity and the unexpected consequences of viral fame. The documentary is not only about Rebney's story, but also about our culture's fascination with failure and embarrassment, how rapid the rise to internet fame can be, and the person behind the persona.

Winnebago Man is also a thoughtful examination of how we consume and share media, especially within the context of the digital age. The film contemplates on questions of what it means to be both the object of ridicule and a figure of admiration, and how an ordinary person, like Rebney, can unexpectedly find themselves in the crosshairs of an often-unforgiving internet.

Steinbauer’s documentary is a memorable one, and brings about an innovative twist on the nature of internet fame, as well as an authentic human study. Apart from capturing the viral element, Winnebago Man also locates in Rebney a classic all-American character: isolated, furious, articulate and hilariously self-aware.

The film does an excellent job of identifying the often thin line between humor and cruelty, demonstrating keenly how swiftly the tables can turn in the digital world. The moral and emotional nuances of Winnebago Man unexpectedly steal the show, making it a truly remarkable watch.

Also featured in the documentary are appearances by co-star Keith Gordon and other notable figures in the film and comedy world, adding further depth and perspective to the narrative. The cinematography and editing, combined with a unique soundtrack, makes this documentary a delightful viewing experience.

Winnebago Man is not a film for everyone, as it contains strong language and raw human emotions, which can be jarring at times. However, anyone who appreciates thought-provoking documentaries and stark humor is certain to find this film intriguing.

In essence, Winnebago Man effectively captures the zeitgeist of the early viral video era, provides a careful study of a viral sensation, and presents endearing and compelling storytelling, making it a must-see for anyone intrigued by culture, internet fame, and the human condition.