American: The Bills Hicks Story

I had planned on writing about the finer things in life - those that were made using skill and care, and finding a few products that embody that spirit. I'll push that aside for a while, and instead review a documentary about the late American comedian, Bill Hicks.
I was first introduced to Bill Hicks while living in England. A chap that lived in my dorm was a huge fan of Hicks. He was also a huge fan of Radiohead, the biggest fan I'd ever met. Later, I'd learn that Radiohead dedicated Kid A to Hicks. It was then in this latest documentary that I'd learn a little as to why Radiohead were such big fans of this American comedian.
Hicks started his comedic career at an early age. He and his best friend started making up routines at 13, and by time they were 15 were sneaking out at night to head to open mic night at the only comedy club in town. The documentary covers his story with incredible detail. The cinematic styles used are a mix of animation and archival footage. The animation is really well done, and is something very unique to see. It hooks you in to the back story where otherwise you might jsut be interested in seeing the footage of Hicks on stage. With the Hicks' comedy footage, you definitely get enough throughout to be entertained and learn and see Hicks style, which is nothing less than brutally honest, insightful and in your face.
The great part about this documentary is how it traces the challenges Hicks faced along the way, including drug and alcohol addiction. We see how his addictions affected his routine so negatively that he almost lost it all. He was actually forced to pack up and move from LA to New York to escape his habits and click of friends who were a negative influence.
Hicks' career truly went big time after he kicked his drinking and drug habits. He did a tour of England and Ireland, where he became a rockstar. The idea of an American who was super critical of America was a huge hit there. I can now understand the connection with Radiohead, who have echoed his anti-system, anti-war, anti-American hegemony sentiments in their work and music.
This doc is very entertaining and informative. It's a must for the Hicks fan, and is an awesome 1:40 minutes of entertainment even for those who have never heard of him. Hicks dies of cancer at 32. What a tragedy. He was the kind of guy who could actually influence people to open their eyes and question the world we've created. And he would make you laugh your ass off while doing it.

Play with your fucking heart!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!