Watch Bill Hicks: Reflections

Bill Hicks: Reflections is a documentary film that was released in 2015. Directed by Matt Harlock and Paul Thomas, the film follows the life and career of the legendary comedian Bill Hicks, who died of pancreatic cancer in 1994 at the age of 32. The film is a deep dive into the mind of Hicks, exploring his influences, his philosophies, his controversial humor, and his impact on comedy.

The film opens with Hicks' earliest recordings and performances, showing how he developed his unique style and voice over the years. Through interviews with family members, friends, and fellow comedians, we learn about Hicks' childhood, his love of comedy, and his struggles with drugs and alcohol. We also see how his comedy evolved over time, becoming more political and provocative as he gained confidence and experience.

One of the key themes of the film is Hicks' rebellion against mainstream culture and his advocacy for free speech and critical thinking. We see clips of his most famous sets, including his scathing critiques of American politics, religion, and consumerism. We also hear from fans and colleagues about how Hicks' message impacted their own lives, and how he was ahead of his time in his criticisms of society.

The film also delves into the personal side of Hicks' life, including his romantic relationships and his battle with cancer. We learn about his loyal followers, who supported him through his illness and helped him to continue performing even as he became increasingly frail. We also see the impact of his death on the comedy community, with a number of comedians and fans reflecting on the void that was left after he passed away.

Throughout the film, Steve Hicks, Bill's brother, serves as a guide, providing insights into Bill's life and showing us some of the places that were important to him. We see the house in Houston where he grew up, the comedy clubs where he got his start, and the sites of some of his most famous performances. Steve also shares personal memories and anecdotes about his brother, giving us a glimpse into the man behind the comedian.

One of the most impressive aspects of the film is the way it weaves together archive footage, interviews, and animation to create a rich and immersive portrait of Hicks. The animation is particularly effective, allowing us to see some of Hicks' earliest sets brought to life in a way that feels fresh and contemporary. The film also features a number of musicians who were inspired by Hicks, including Tom Waits, Tool, and Henry Rollins, who provide a soundtrack that perfectly captures the film's themes and mood.

Overall, Bill Hicks: Reflections is a fascinating and insightful documentary that sheds new light on one of the most influential comedians of the 20th century. Whether you're a die-hard Hicks fan or have never heard of him before, this film is sure to entertain and inspire, offering a timely reminder of the power of humor to provoke, challenge, and enlighten.

Bill Hicks: Reflections is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.