“Gonzo: The Life And Work Of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson” is a documentary film that looks at, well, the life and work of Hunter S. Thompson. Via video footage, letters, stories, interviews with friends and acquaintances, we learn about the acclaimed cult writer who tragically ended his life in 2005. Main topics of focus include Thompson’s books “Hell’s Angels” and “Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas,” his political beliefs, his family, and his excessive drug use.  

For those wanting an in depth look into the mind of Hunter S. Thompson, you best check out his audio recordings instead as this is a rather safe documentary film. With that said, “Gonzo” is certainly an utterly watchable documentary that contains loads of factual information, neat footage of Thompson running for Sheriff of Aspen, and great interviews with the likes of Jimmy Carter and Tom Wolfe. However, when it’s all over and done with, you wished director Alex Gibney would have dug deeper rather than giving us a basic look at the boundary pushing journalist. To me, it always felt like Gibney was holding back from showing or telling us more about him which is a bit disappointing. Still, anyone remotely curious about Thompson should check "Gonzo" out.

Note: Johnny Depp narrates the documentary.

The 1.78:1 widescreen picture quality understandably varies in quality as there is footage from various cameras and time periods throughout. The Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track is also hit-and-miss, but the audio is generally pretty clear.

Extras:

* 8 photo galleries including the early days, Big Sur, guns, Owl Farm, writings, Hell’s Angels, South America and memorabilia.

* Drawings by Ralph Steadman.

* 5 deleted scenes.

* Ads for a "Gonzo" book, soundtrack, and CD set.

* 'Wayward and Weary" tribute song by Tift Merritt (4:00).

* 2 "Gonzo Tape" audio excerpts.

* A rather quiet and uninvolving commentary by Alex Gibney who mainly rattles on about directorial choices.

* The best extras are 19 extended interviews about such topics as the cigarette holder, the sex doll and the fire at a hotel.