Watch Hubert Selby Jr: It'll Be Better Tomorrow

Hubert Selby Jr: It'll Be Better Tomorrow is a documentary film directed by Michael W. Dean, which explores the life and work of one of America's most compelling and controversial writers, Hubert Selby Jr. The film is a poignant and illuminating journey into the mind of a man who battled addiction, poverty, and ill health to become a literary icon.

The movie features interviews with Selby's friends, family, and colleagues, including filmmaker Darren Aronofsky, musician Henry Rollins, and actor Robert Downey Jr. These interviews provide a glimpse into Selby's early life in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn, where he grew up in abject poverty and struggled with physical disabilities, as well as his later years as a celebrated author and cultural figure.

The film also examines Selby's groundbreaking novels, including Last Exit to Brooklyn, The Room, and Requiem for a Dream, which explore the darkest corners of the human psyche and challenge traditional literary conventions. Through readings from his work and discussions with critics and scholars, the film offers an in-depth look at Selby's unique voice and the impact of his writing on American culture.

Throughout the film, Selby himself is a central figure, recounting his experiences and reflecting on his life and work. His honesty, humor, and wisdom are evident in every frame, and his resilience in the face of adversity is truly inspirational. Selby's struggles with addiction, poverty, and illness are also explored, offering a powerful portrait of a man who faced tremendous challenges but never lost his passion for writing or his belief in the power of language.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its raw and intimate feel. Shot on a mix of handheld digital cameras and older film cameras, the movie captures Selby's world in a way that feels both immersive and personal. The cinematography is often stark and gritty, mirroring Selby's unflinching portrayal of urban life, and the editing is fast-paced and dynamic, reflecting the urgency and intensity of his writing.

Despite its focus on Selby's life and work, the film is much more than a simple biographical portrait. It is also a meditation on the power of art to transform lives and inspire change. Through Selby's own words and those of his admirers, the film celebrates the transformative power of literature and the enduring legacy of one of America's most original and influential writers.

In conclusion, Hubert Selby Jr: It'll Be Better Tomorrow is a truly remarkable film that offers an intimate and insightful look into the life and work of a literary icon. With its mix of interviews, readings, and archival footage, the movie illuminates the many facets of Selby's complex personality and artistic vision, while also offering a compelling portrait of a man who overcame incredible obstacles to become one of the most important writers of his generation. Whether you are a fan of Selby's work or simply interested in exploring the power of literature, this film is a must-see.

Hubert Selby Jr: It'll Be Better Tomorrow is a 2006 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.