Time: 122 Minutes
Age Rating: M – Nudity, strong sexual imagery & content that may disturb
Cast:
Nan Goldin as herself
Director: Laura Poitras

I went into All The Beauty and the Bloodshed not knowing what to expect, beyond the fact that it is a documentary that was meant to be good, and ended up being pleasantly surprising.

All the Beauty and the Bloodshed is a documentary about artist and activist Nan Goldin. It takes its time to tell its personal story by interweaving multiple stories together. The first storyline is about Nan’s rise as a photographer, artist and activist and delves into her personal inner struggles and past. It also is a retrospective of her photography, and is a glimpse at the underground art scene. The second storyline is about her modern day activism, focussing on her going up against OxyContin and the Sackler family. Between these two storylines, All the Beauty and the Bloodshed is unstructured as it bounces between the past and the present, yet plays seamlessly. It’s a self reflective, honest and life affirming tribute, and gives a unique perspective on the world and a career as an artist.

Laura Poitras’s direction is strong, the film is incredibly made. The two storylines are each given their own distinct styles, and they work quite well. I especially like how Goldin’s photography is used to illustrate her personal life.

All the Beauty and the Bloodshed is a remarkable, fascinating, moving and monumental documentary. Outstanding all round.