The latest documentary, “How to Come Alive with Norman Mailer,” is a mesmerizing and haunting tribute to the life and work of the legendary American writer, Norman Mailer. The film delves deep into the complexities of Mailer’s personality, exploring the intricate web of contradictions that made him one of the most iconic and controversial figures of the 20th century.

Directed by Joseph Mantello, theis a masterclass in nuanced storytelling, weaving together an intimate mix of archival footage, interviews with Mailer’s friends, family, and colleagues, and rare archival materials. The result is a film that is both a love letter to Mailer’s literary legacy and a candid exploration of his personal demons.The film’s title, “How to Come Alive,” is a nod to Mailer’s own philosophy, which emphasized the importance of living life to the fullest and embracing the contradictions and complexities of human experience.

As the documentary makes clear, Mailer’s life was a testament to this philosophy, with its share of triumphs and tragedies.Mailer, who passed away in 2007, was a renaissance man of sorts, with a range of interests that spanned from literature and journalism to politics and philosophy. He was a true polymath, with a keen intellect and a boundless curiosity. The film shows us Mailer’s boundless energy, his quick wit, and his sharp intellect, as well as his tendency to be a bit of a provocateur.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is its portrayal of Mailer’s darker side. The documentary shines a light on his struggles with depression, his tumultuous relationships, and his various infidelities. It’s a reminder that even the most celebrated and admired individuals can be complex and multifaceted, with flaws and vulnerabilities that make them human.

The film also explores Mailer’s fascination with the darker aspects of human nature, which is evident in his writing. His novels, such as “The Executioner’s Song” and “Armies of the Night,” are known for their unflinching portrayals of violence, cruelty, and the human condition. The documentary shows how these themes were reflected in his own life, as well as his writing.

One of the standout segments of the film is its exploration of Mailer’s friendship with the Beat poet and artist, Allen Ginsberg. The two men had a deep and abiding friendship, and their conversations and debates about art, literature, and politics are enlightening and entertaining.

Throughout the film, Mantello’s direction is superb, using a mix of archival footage and new interviews to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the gritty, New York City-inspired aesthetic that is central to Mailer’s work.

Overall, “How to Come Alive with Norman Mailer” is a must-see for fans of literature, film, and the human experience. It’s a documentary that is both a celebration of Mailer’s life and work, and a nuanced exploration of the complexities of the human condition. With its insightful interviews, thoughtful direction, and rare archival materials, it’s a film that will leave audiences in awe of Mailer’s legacy and inspired to live life to the fullest.