Paul Goodman Changed My Life

Paul Goodman Changed My Life is a 2011 documentary film directed by Jonathan Lee. The film offers an intimate, in-depth portrait of the multifaceted life and work of Paul Goodman, the famous writer, philosopher, social critic, and public intellectual.

Starring Goodman himself, through captivating archival footage and interviews, the documentary aims to throw light upon his pioneering and revolutionary ideas, impact on diverse fields, and ultimately, the influence he had on individuals and society at large.

The movie takes its title and premise from the impact Goodman’s influential thoughts had on the people he interacted with. It is named after a comment on a tribute website to the man, explaining how profoundly his works affected their lives. The philosophical thoughts of Goodman, touched upon a wide range of subjects and areas including psychology, city planning, education, politics, and linguistics, are clearly presented in the documentary.

The film not only unravels the genius of Goodman, but also delves into his personal life, which was marked by much complexity and controversy. We see Goodman as a man who passionately practiced and upheld bisexuality, a controversial stance during his lifetime. The film is hence an exploration of Goodman's open defiance of social norms in his personal life too.

Paul Goodman Changed My Life showcases Goodman as a prolific writer and a public intellectual. His writings became a vivid reflection of the time he lived in, and they still retain their relevance. Born in 1911, Goodman lived through many major historical events including both World Wars, the Great Depression, and the tumultuous social changes of the 1960s. Each of these events shaped his philosophy and perspectives in unique ways, and he articulated and propounded these through his writings and lectures. The film showcases how Goodman emerged as a major voice of dissent and critique during the Vietnam War era.

The audience is introduced to Goodman's popular work, "Growing Up Absurd," which had a tremendous cultural impact and is still recognized as an important critique of American society. This critique of the education system, youth culture, and societal values resonated with many, making Goodman a significant figure in the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Moreover, the film grants valuable insights into his teachings at the Black Mountain College and his association with anarchist thinker Alex Comfort.

The documentary is enriched with commentary and reflections from prominent figures who knew Goodman or were influenced by him. These figures include anarchist philosopher Noam Chomsky, poet Denise Levertov, writer Ned O'Gorman, Goodman's family members, and several of his former students. Their memories and testimonies make the narrative more personal, vividly bringing out the legacy and charisma of the man.

Jonathan Lee, the director, interestingly weaves together a range of elements such as documentary interviews, abstract animations, and historical footage, to present an image of Paul Goodman as someone far ahead of his time. The film contextualizes his ideas and actions within the dramatically changing America of his time but also captures their timeless relevance.

Paul Goodman Changed My Life is not merely a tribute to Goodman. It is also an exploration into the essence of the man that he was - his genius, his rebelliousness, and his relentless quest for truth and freedom. In comprehensively examining his life and works, the documentary not only unravels the multi-layered persona of Goodman, but it also offers insight into the radical changes and complexities of the 20th century American society.

It is a rewarding watch for those interested in social critique, philosophy, history, and understanding the complex dynamics between an individual and the society they exist within. Along the way, it raises a crucial question – If Paul Goodman's revolutionary ideas could change lives back then, can they still do the same today? This film, at its core, is a rediscovery of a profound voice that, despite having faded from popular consciousness, still carries crucial insights and lessons for our world.

In conclusion, Paul Goodman Changed My Life is a stirring exploration of an influential thinker, carried out with care, profundity, and a deep understanding of both the man and his ideas. It serves as an important reminder of the power ideas have to shape lives and societies, and the crucial role public intellectuals play in challenging established norms and paving the way for change.