333. Fauci; movie review

 

FAUCI

Cert 12A

105 mins

BBFC advice: Contains discrimination, upsetting scenes, infrequent strong language

Even before I had watched this documentary I could not think of anyone who can have a thicker skin than Anthony Fauci.

But it turns out to be far far tougher than I imagined.

Fauci came to worldwide attention over the past two years because he stood next to Donald Trump while the president was spouting nonsense about killing off Covid with bleach, malaria tablets or whatever else came into his head.

Meanwhile, Fauci provided the real story - giving clear leadership on the handling of the crisis despite the obstacles put in his way by a White House which wanted to pretend it was not happening.

But, as this film from John Hoffman and Janet Tobias, proves, this is far from the first time that Fauci has found himself among the headlines.

He played a critical part in the fight against Aids and for much of that crisis he was also vilified for not taking appropriate action.

History and Aids campaigners are much kinder to him now.

This Fauci biopic has brilliant access, incredible contemporary footage and is very honest.

Indeed, Fauci is probably too brutal about his own failings - given that he has been at the centre of  stunning discoveries which have saved many thousands of lives.

This film reflects on his his great successes but also highlights his regrets, particularly over the fight with Aids which took him and the entire medical community by surprise.

It highlights his relationships with presidents, medics and family as well as those who have suffered because of the viruses which have emerged over the past five decades.

It is a portrait of someone who believes incredibly passionately in public service and will not be persuaded away from what is right.

His energy certainly belies his 80 years.

Reasons to watch: A thorough biopic of a modern-day hero

Reasons to avoid: A tad over-stretched

Laughs: None

Jumps: None

Vomit: None

Nudity: None

Overall rating: 8.5/10

Did you know? When Fauci was growing up in Brooklyn, his family ran a neighbourhood pharmacy, which Fauci himself took part in by delivering prescriptions by bicycle.

The final word. John Hoffman: "We knew that we had a film to bring to the public because Tony’s life has been defined by these two great pandemics of our time, and the elevator pitch was that Tony is a man whose life and career were forged in HIV/AIDS and tested in COVID." The Moveable Fest

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