Some have pointed out that this film lacks the big-budget Hollywood theatrics of Terry Gilliam's over-the-top (but wonderfully zany) interpretation of "Fear and Loathing In Las Vegas", and I agree.
Whether by design or default, this more stripped down and focused approach is part of what gives "Aspen" its charm. It feels like a genuine and intimate throwback, appropriately DIY and Gonzo-style, and a very human characterization of Hunter (the man, before the legend) during a pivotal and uncertain period, both personally and politically.
This seemingly-forgotten microcosmic series of events, in all its glorious peculiarity, reveals broader socio-political themes that highlight the fragility of the American Dream. The message resonates more strongly than ever in today's political climate in the USA, and serves as a reminder of what's at stake.
Far from a caricature of the subject matter, the film features nuanced writing, solid directing, and fine acting, especially from Bulger, who nails not only the "classic" Hunter mannerisms and delivery, but also conveys more depth and introspection than has typically been depicted on screen. There are plenty of laughs along the way, but ultimately, this is not the drug-fueled absurdist comedy one might expect...thankfully!
The decision to shoot much of it on real film (including Super 8 film), rather than digitally, completes the period-appropriate, time capsule aesthetic. The meticulous cinematography often captures stunning images of the land and resources that made America so classically and inextricably tied to a profound sense of wonder and "freedom".
All in all, it is a quick, pleasant watch, and entirely worth it.
NOTE: This film has also been compared to the 2020 documentary "Freak Power: The Ballot or the Bomb," inspired by the same subject matter. While I encourage viewers to see that film as well, it should be noted that "Fear and Loathing In Aspen" was actually conceived, filmed, and scheduled to be released first, but its original premiere at SXSW in early 2020 was pushed back due to COVID. The unaffiliated documentary was released in the meantime.
Whether by design or default, this more stripped down and focused approach is part of what gives "Aspen" its charm. It feels like a genuine and intimate throwback, appropriately DIY and Gonzo-style, and a very human characterization of Hunter (the man, before the legend) during a pivotal and uncertain period, both personally and politically.
This seemingly-forgotten microcosmic series of events, in all its glorious peculiarity, reveals broader socio-political themes that highlight the fragility of the American Dream. The message resonates more strongly than ever in today's political climate in the USA, and serves as a reminder of what's at stake.
Far from a caricature of the subject matter, the film features nuanced writing, solid directing, and fine acting, especially from Bulger, who nails not only the "classic" Hunter mannerisms and delivery, but also conveys more depth and introspection than has typically been depicted on screen. There are plenty of laughs along the way, but ultimately, this is not the drug-fueled absurdist comedy one might expect...thankfully!
The decision to shoot much of it on real film (including Super 8 film), rather than digitally, completes the period-appropriate, time capsule aesthetic. The meticulous cinematography often captures stunning images of the land and resources that made America so classically and inextricably tied to a profound sense of wonder and "freedom".
All in all, it is a quick, pleasant watch, and entirely worth it.
NOTE: This film has also been compared to the 2020 documentary "Freak Power: The Ballot or the Bomb," inspired by the same subject matter. While I encourage viewers to see that film as well, it should be noted that "Fear and Loathing In Aspen" was actually conceived, filmed, and scheduled to be released first, but its original premiere at SXSW in early 2020 was pushed back due to COVID. The unaffiliated documentary was released in the meantime.