Wednesday, July 01, 2009

Gonzo

Last night I was watching the documentary movie Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson, directed by Alex Gibney. The film tells the story of the life and career of the author and journalist Hunter S. Thompson, who is most famous as the author of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Hell's Angels and Fear and Loathing: On the Campaign Trail '72, and for his pieces for Rolling Stone magazine where he pioneered what he termed "gonzo journalism" which is a style of journalism in which the reporter, instead of just reproting what's happening, becomes an active participant in the story. The film consists of archive interviews with Thompson (who died in 2005), home movies of the author, news footage of the times and events, interviews with his friends, enemies, colleagues and wives, along with actor Johnny Depp reading from his books. Hunter Thompson was an interesting guy who led a very eventful life and the film is full of fun stories. Also although the film is largely respectful and admiring of Thompson and his work, it's not blind to his flaws (although it doesn't really dwell on them). The film is definitely a must-see for all Thompson fans, and also for anyone who is interested in the American counterculture of the 1960s and 70s. It's also full of great rock tracks from the '60s.

Today was yet another quiet day at work. We all had to watch a video about the restructuring of the company's upper management, which doesn't really effect any of us.

I've been looking on the Craigslist site for jobs and accomodation in Canada. I'm aiming to go over there maybe the end of this year or early next year. I'm not really sure yet. The year does seem to be passing by quickly.

Happy Canada Day to anyone who's celebrating it!

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