“I am Burt Reynolds” (1976)

Documentary

Running Time: 91 minutes

Written & directed by: Adrian Buitenhuis

Burt Reynolds: “Having done 300 television shows and almost 60 movies, I’m tired of having guys who are younger than some sandwiches I’ve had telling me to turn left at the couch. There’s no appreciation of actors and no sense of history.”

“I Am Burt Reynolds” is a documentary directed by Adrian Buitenhuis that offers an in-depth exploration of the life and career of the iconic actor Burt Reynolds. Originally released in 2020, the film features interviews with close friends, family members, and colleagues, including Loni Anderson, Jon Voight, Bruce Dern, and director Adam Rifkin. Through these conversations and archival footage, the documentary paints a comprehensive portrait of Reynolds, highlighting both his professional achievements and personal challenges.​

The documentary delves into Reynolds’ rise to stardom, emphasizing his roles in films such as “Deliverance” and the “Smokey and the Bandit” series. These performances solidified his status as a charismatic leading man, known for his rugged masculinity and charm. Reynolds’ decision to pose nude for a 1972 Cosmopolitan centerfold is also discussed, showcasing his willingness to challenge Hollywood norms and his playful engagement with his sex symbol 

Beyond his cinematic accomplishments, “I Am Burt Reynolds” sheds light on the actor’s personal life, including his tumultuous relationships and financial difficulties. His ex-wife, Loni Anderson, provides candid insights into their marriage, touching upon Reynolds’ addiction to prescription painkillers and the strains it placed on their relationship. The documentary also addresses his financial woes, including a 1996 bankruptcy filing, attributing these challenges to a combination of lavish spending and misguided investments. ​

A recurring theme in the film is the portrayal of Reynolds as the epitome of traditional Hollywood masculinity. Interviewees frequently highlight his virility and charm, positioning him as a “man’s man” in an era where such figures were celebrated. This emphasis, while reflective of Reynolds’ public persona, has been noted by some reviewers as potentially overshadowing a more nuanced exploration of his character. For instance, Joe Reid of PRIMETIMER observes that the documentary’s focus on Reynolds’ masculinity might detract from deeper insights into his complexities and vulnerabilities. ​

The documentary has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. Some viewers appreciate the comprehensive overview of Reynolds’ life, praising the inclusion of interviews with those who knew him intimately. An IMDb user review notes that the film is “interesting, informative and entertaining,” particularly valuing the analyses provided by close friends and colleagues.  However, others feel that certain aspects of Reynolds’ life, such as his early marriages and specific film roles, are glossed over, leaving gaps in the narrative. Another IMDb reviewer points out the omission of significant relationships and projects, suggesting that the documentary could have provided a more complete picture of the actor’s life. ​

Strengths of the Documentary

1. Archival Footage and Nostalgic Appeal

One of the greatest strengths of I Am Burt Reynolds is its extensive use of archival footage. Seeing Reynolds in his prime, whether behind the scenes on film sets or during interviews, reminds audiences why he was such an enduring presence in Hollywood. The documentary includes rare footage of Reynolds’ personal life, offering glimpses into the man behind the Hollywood persona.

For longtime fans, the film provides a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The clips from his iconic films, combined with heartfelt commentary from those who knew him best, make for an engaging watch.

2. Strong Interview Lineup

The documentary features a strong lineup of interviewees, including actors, directors, and close friends. Bruce Dern and Jon Voight offer insightful perspectives on Reynolds’ career and legacy. Loni Anderson, his ex-wife, shares personal anecdotes about their tumultuous relationship, giving the documentary an emotional core.

Adam Rifkin, who directed Reynolds in The Last Movie Star (2017), provides one of the most touching segments, discussing how the actor approached his later years in Hollywood with grace and humility.

3. Honest Depiction of His Personal Struggles

Unlike many celebrity documentaries that gloss over personal difficulties, I Am Burt Reynolds does not shy away from discussing Reynolds’ struggles with financial troubles, addiction, and failed relationships.

His well-documented bankruptcy in the 1990s is covered in detail, showing how Reynolds went from being one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood to facing serious financial ruin. The film also touches on his issues with painkiller addiction, which developed after years of performing his own stunts. These moments add depth to the documentary, making it more than just a highlight reel of his greatest hits.

Weaknesses of the Documentary

1. Lack of Deeper Psychological Insight

While I Am Burt Reynolds does a solid job covering the major events of Reynolds’ life, it occasionally feels more like a surface-level biography rather than a deep exploration of the man himself.

The documentary presents Reynolds as a rugged, masculine figure but doesn’t dig deeply into his insecurities, regrets, or inner struggles. His complicated relationship with fame, his personal demons, and his thoughts on his own career choices are touched upon but never fully explored.

2. Overemphasis on Masculinity

One recurring theme throughout the documentary is Reynolds’ status as a “man’s man.” While this is undeniably a key aspect of his image, the film leans heavily into this idea without critically examining it. Was this persona a shield he used to hide vulnerabilities? Did it impact his career choices? The documentary hints at these questions but never fully explores them.

Some critics have pointed out that this focus on Reynolds’ masculinity comes at the expense of a more nuanced portrait. Joe Reid of PRIMETIMER noted that while the documentary celebrates Reynolds’ rugged image, it could have gone further in examining how this image may have boxed him in as an actor and a person.

3. Some Key Relationships Are Glossed Over

While the film covers his relationship with Loni Anderson in detail, it glosses over some of his other significant relationships, including his deep connection with actress Sally Field. Reynolds once referred to Field as “the love of his life,” yet the documentary barely touches on their relationship. This omission feels like a missed opportunity, as their story was a major part of his personal and professional life.

“I Am Burt Reynolds” serves as a tribute to a multifaceted actor whose influence on Hollywood remains significant. While the documentary succeeds in celebrating Reynolds’ charm, talent, and contributions to the film industry, it occasionally falls short in fully capturing the complexities of his personal journey. For fans and newcomers alike, the film offers valuable insights but may leave some viewers yearning for a deeper exploration of the man behind the moustache.​