Thursday 10 November 2022

Review: Hello, Bookstore

When an independent local bookstore is chosen for the sole location of a film documentary, you know it's going to contain a lot of character and enjoyment.

It certainly helps when the shop owner loves talking to people and telling stories, whether it be from his own life or from a book he has read.

That's what we have here. Everything about the viewing experience is joyful whether it be seeing the smiles on the customers or the stuff that is being said by the shop owner.

The strength of the community is there for all to see and the stories dropped in to give the story some depth were nicely timed.

The 'fly on the wall' style of camerawork made it feel even more real and we got a more natural response from everyone on screen.

Some bits did go over my head as it referred to particular authors that I have no knowledge of. But I could tell that avid book readers understand those particular references.

This was an enjoyable watch that only needed one completely engrossing central figure and that was all the content they needed.

While it may have been supposed to be about a bookstore, it really is about the owner.
The amount of stories and quotes that were coming from him was constant and made for captivating viewing. It certainly got a healthy amount of laughs from me.

Plus, the environment of a local bookstore is a winnable choice of location for so many people.

This is like a real life version of 'It's A Wonderful Life' with it's own George Bailey. The town love him and I am confident the audience will as well.

Rating: 8/10

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