Hot Docs 2019 Reviews: Ask Dr. Ruth and Capturing Reality: The Art of the Documentary

Apr 27, 2019- Permalink

Ask Dr. Ruth

Sometime it seems like we know everything about Dr. Ruth Westheimer. The iconic sex therapist appears to be an open book, talking freely about masturbation, locating the clitoris, and sexual fantasies on radio, TV and in books. But she hasn’t really told us much about herself until now. Director Ryan White’s doc, Ask Dr. Ruth, delves into the history of this unstoppable force. Sent off to the safety of Switzerland, she was a Holocaust orphan. She was trained as a sharpshooter by the Israeli military. She was married three times, she’s a mother, she became a popular author and radio host and she’s still going strong at 90.

Westheimer’s story is one of remarkable determination and perseverance. She didn’t get her doctorate until she was 42. She tackled subject matter that was taboo and her forthrightness and charm broke down barriers that allowed people to feel freer about their fears, worries and personal identity. The crew hustles to keep up with this 4’ 7” bundle of energy and inquisitiveness and I dare you not to feel happy and inspired by this remarkable woman.

Next up on my schedule was Pepita Ferrari’s Capturing Reality: The Art of the Documentary. Ferrari died last year and Hot Docs has scheduled this 2008 film of hers as it’s a great examination of the filmmakers and techniques we’ll see unspooling throughout the festival. Ferrari spoke to thirty-three filmmakers including Alanis Obomsawin, Oscar-winner Laura Poitras, Werner Herzog, and Patricio Guzmán. This look at the motivations, techniques, and styles of the various documentarians is a perfect companion piece to immersing yourself in this art form during the festival.