This is a first for me. I've done plenty of book reviews but I've never had the opportunity to preview a movie before it's release. It's fun being in the know.
The irony of my last statement can only be realized when you know that "I'll Be Me" chronicles legendary country singer, Glen Campbell's final tour in the midst of battling Alzheimer's. What a horrid disease. I watched this movie two days ago but couldn't quite bring myself to write a review because it was too painful. I lost my own paternal Grandmother to Alzheimer's and watching it play it's evil tune in the life of another was distressing.
I was expecting "I'll Be Me" to be a fictional telling of Glen Campbell's entire life; not a documentary about his final tour, so I was taken by surprise. At first I was disappointed by this but as the film went along, I was captivated by Mr. Campbell's way of handling his memory loss. For the most part, he dealt with it with a laugh and a smile. But of course, as with many Alzheimer victims, including my Grandmother, eventually the smiling gives way to fear and the laughing turns to paranoia. I still can't decide if I was uplifted and depressed by seeing this film but either way, it was very moving and spotlighted a much misunderstood disease.
Intermixed with videos of the tour were snippets of some major celebrities talking about how amazing Glen's career was and the impact he had on them. One of the most touching scenes in the film was when celebrity after celebrity told of a loved one that was a victim of Alzheimer.
To be honest, I didn't know who Glen Campbell was until I heard "Rhinestone Cowboy". Oooh, that Glen Campbell. (I'm not much of an old country music fan) I enjoyed the music of this flick though. Speaking of music, I'm giving away the soundtrack to this film (which will be released some time this fall). If you want your name in the draw, please leave a comment below. The draw will be made Oct 30th, 2014. Good luck.
Here's the official wrap about this film from the producers:
In 2011, when Glen Campbell was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, he joined forces with his family to fight the biggest battle of his life. Glen and his wife, Kim, made history by going public with the diagnosis – the first time a major American celebrity would share this experience with the world. The Campbell family then embarked on a short “Goodbye Tour,” but the three-week engagement turned into an emotional and triumphant 151-show nationwide tour de force.
This epic human drama about the undying bond between Glen and Kim, and their unwavering caring for each other, chronicles a story of love, resilience and the power of song.
GLEN CAMPBELL…I’LL BE ME is the true tale of how America’s greatest country star would not give up his music or his family, against all odds.
The film features those who know and love Glen, including Bruce Springsteen, Bill Clinton, The Edge, Paul McCartney, Jay Leno, Vince Gill, Jimmy Webb, Blake Shelton, Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Steve Martin, Chad Smith and Taylor Swift among many others. Rare vintage footage and extraordinary new performances of Glen’s most beloved hits immerse this moving cinematic account in the overwhelming talent of this humble family man. With joy and a tireless sense of humor, Glen and his family live each moment in the present while preparing for the future, all while playing their music to sold out venues on a star spangled voyage spanning the country from Carnegie Hall to the Hollywood Bowl.
Now for some legal stuff.
"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”
Hey, I'd like this for my country music loving son. Thanks for the review!
ReplyDeleteHi Beautiful Mommy Princess, you win! Unfortunately your profile doesn't have a contact email. I need you to email me your address so I can get this mailed out to you. babiroo321@yahoo.ca
DeleteIf I don't hear from you by Nov 1, I'll have to pick another winner. Sorry.