Culture

Rating: 3/5

J. D. Salinger is perhaps one of the most enigmatic figures of the twentieth century. The author of one of the period’s most infamous novels, The Catcher in the Rye, Salinger exploded onto the literary and pop culture scene of the 1950s and 60s. Then, as fast as he had appeared, he disappeared. Unlike most pop culture icons, however, this was not because his 15 minutes of fame were over, but because he chose a life of seclusion over a life in the spotlight.

This documentary, directed by Hollywood veteran Shane Salerno, was nine years in the making and offers an in-depth look at a man who changed his generation and then refused to deal with the resulting fallout. Using a variety of interviews, footage, photographs and re-creations, Salerno attempts to uncover the history, intentions and secrets of J. D. Salinger once and for all.

At times the film deals deftly with its material, making Salinger’s life experiences feel relevant not only to literature and pop culture but to humanity in general. The scenes detailing Salinger’s experiences during WWII are perhaps the clearest example, highlighting the impact that momentous event had not only on Salinger’s work but on every aspect of our existence.

Unfortunately, Salerno’s constant use of tacky re-creations, as well as his inclusion of “fans” and “writers” who more closely resemble “stalkers,” lowers the tone of the film, and at times makes the whole thing feel more like a witch-hunt than a biography. Salinger’s life is absolutely fascinating, and peppered with incredible stories, but often these are buried beneath the director’s own theories regarding his personality and work.

That being said, Salerno deserves some credit: while researching the documentary, he uncovered some information that was so mind-blowing the premiere had to be moved so as to allow for its inclusion in the news cycle.

Salinger is definitely worth seeing if you are a fan of the subject’s work. His life story is fascinating, not least because of the effect his creations have had on our own lives and culture today.