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Examined Life is a thought-provoking documentary film that explores the nature of happiness, philosophy, and the human condition. Directed by Astra Taylor, the film brings together eight contemporary philosophers who share their insights on various topics in modern society. The film is shot in a simple, straightforward style that showcases the personalities and ideas of each of the philosopher. Each philosopher is filmed as they walk through the city, engaging in discussions about different aspects of life.

The film begins by introducing the philosophers, who include Kwame Anthony Appiah, Judith Butler, Michael Hardt, Martha Nussbaum, Peter Singer, Slavoj Žižek, Cornel West, and Avital Ronell. Each is given ample screen time to present their philosophy and ideas in their own words. The film then delves into a series of conversations that explore different topics such as the role of the city, the nature of freedom, and the importance of ethics.

One of the key conversations is about the nature of happiness, as explored by Appiah. He reflects on the idea that the Western conception of happiness is one that is individualistic, with the emphasis on wealth, individual achievement, and personal gratification. Appiah argues that happiness should be more communal, based on the principles of community, shared experiences, and relationships with others.

Another interesting discussion is about the role of the city and urban living, explored by Ronell. She reflects on the impact of architecture on urban life, and how it shapes people's experiences of public spaces. She highlights the importance of creating spaces that promote communication and interaction between individuals, rather than ones that are isolated and disconnected.

Butler, a prominent feminist theorist, talks about the role of the body in the social construction of gender. She argues that the way we see and understand the body is shaped by social and cultural forces, and that we must challenge and question these assumptions in order to achieve a more egalitarian and just society.

The film also delves into issues of ethics and politics, with Singer discussing the moral obligations humans have towards animals and the environment, while West talks about the importance of addressing racism and the struggles for social justice. Hardt reflects on the nature of resistance and liberation, and how these concepts relate to political change.

Overall, Examined Life is a fascinating and engaging documentary that challenges viewers to think about the nature of the world around them. Through a series of conversations, the film offers a diverse range of philosophical perspectives on modern society, and raises important questions about ethics, morality, and politics. The film's engaging style and engaging subjects make it a compelling viewing experience, and one that is sure to provoke thought and discussion.

Examined Life is a 2008 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 64.