To Stay Alive: A Method (2016) User Reviews

The insane are usually themselves. That is why they are locked away.

[ms-52486 · 7/10 · 8 December 2019]

This film/documentary puts the focus on a group of people that would usually be described as losers, crazies or weirdos.

The concept is based on an essay of Michel Houellebecq, in which he seems to encourage this said group of people - by declaring human suffering as the source of all poetic expression.

Iggy Pop takes a very prominent spot, maybe a bit too prominent. I would have liked to hear more from Houellebecq himself.

The other protagonists - Anne Claire Bourdin, Jérôme Tessier and Robert Combas - are all struggling with their mental issues to a greater or lesser degree - while trying to express themselves artistically.

Awakening, and invigorating.

[mitchandcary · 9/10 · 23 July 2019]

A thought-provoking, mindful, and philosophical view into the creative mind, through the blurred filters of created realities, imagined identities, and stark clarity. This is a wondrous painting, created with words, poetry, emotion, and imagery.

Singularity

[tree_beetse · 9/10 · 13 February 2022]

Fascinating inquiry into the boundaries between insanity, counterculture and singularity. Very human too, as the film portrays outsiders as the real creative thinkers, much closer to great artists like Mr Pop and Mr Houellebecq. This film challenges your ideas about art, expression and beauty, and hopefully it will inspire you to follow your instincts and your own craziness. It did that for me.