Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me
Directed by James Keach, the film is something of a home movie, and has no controversial edge to it (I checked up on what's been happening since, and there's a court case involving his children from previous marriages and his current wife). His wife, Kim, is the dominant figure in the film, caring for him, while his three children by her are part of his band. His other five children do not appear.
For those who have family with Alzheimer's the film will touch on powerful emotions. Campbell can not remember the day of the week, the month, the year, or who the first president was. He says those things "don't concern him," which is cover for his deteriorating memory. So how can he take a stage and sing? Teleprompters give him the words, but amazingly he is able to remember how to play the guitar, and quite well. His sunny personality, which is a major part of his appeal, has also not dimmed. He jokes about going into the kitchen and forgetting why he went in there, and then says, "So I stopped going into the kitchen."
Several people are interviewed, ranging from Steve Martin, who was a writer for his variety TV show, and Bruce Springsteen. Footage from his receipt of a Lifetime Achievement Grammy is touching, especially watching Paul McCartney rock out to "Rhinestone Cowboy."
There is also scenes of Campbell visiting Washington and talking to lawmakers about Alzheimer's research. His daughter Ashley testifies before congress and it's hard to choke up when she does, realizing there will come a point when he doesn't recognize her at all.
Alzheimer's is a terrible disease, and that it strikes a man like Campbell, so full of talent and good will, seems even more harsh. For Campbell fans, I recommend it, but be prepared to dab away tears.
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