How do you make a documentary about a man who was exploited his entire life while still respecting his true, dignified self? Whatever the answer is, it’s unlikely you’ll find it in Gary, a biography detailing the ups and downs (but mostly the downs) of Gary Coleman’s life. It’s less a holistic portrait than a he-said-she-said narrative, comprised of a cacophony of voices insisting their version of Coleman is the truth. There are only a handful of people who seem to really know Coleman. One of them, Dion Mal, mentions at one point in the film that the best way to celebrate Coleman is to remember that he enjoyed many parts of his life. It’s a shame the filmmakers disregarded that sentiment and went for a true-crime-esque tone instead.
Synopsis
Follow the extraordinary story of Gary Coleman's rise to international fame as the child star of Diff'rent Strokes; his struggles with fame; and the controversy surrounding his tragic death at the age of 42. For the first time, viewers will get insight into Coleman's private world through exclusive interviews with his fellow actors, industry insiders and his estranged ex-wife and parents.
Storyline
Tells the tale of child actor Gary Coleman (Diff'rent Strokes) and the struggles he faced with fame, love, money, and family.
TLDR
Hijacking a dead person’s story long after his death is distasteful at best and disrespectful at worst.
What stands out
The off-putting tone of the documentary. It insists on being investigative and dramatic instead of just sticking to the specificities of Coleman’s life.
