An Honest Liar is a wonderfully interesting, engaging, intriguing documentary that tells you a story while delivering a side of nostalgia and a satisfying serving of information. The film focuses on “The Amazing Randi,” a magician who appeared on stage predominantly in the 50s through 70s. But what makes his story particularly compelling is the combination of his drive to expose the fraudulent psychics and faith healers while living his own life in a particularly hidden manner.
James Randi’s time in the spotlight was mostly before my time, so I don’t particularly remember him. But I do remember the huge rise of faith healers on television–and my own blend of skepticism/disgust at how I am certain people were taken advantage of. And I do remember the shows Randi appeared on. And I have great respect for anyone who can admit, “Yes, I’m a magician and I use tricks to entertain you” but who at the same time has zero tolerance for those who use tricks to defraud you, to cheat you, to play on your fragile and vulnerable emotions and fear. All of these combine to make me feel plenty connected to Randi’s story to truly care and to want to watch and learn more about his tale.
The film is smart. His story is fresh, even if a story from decades ago. And the scenes from tapes of shows of yesterday like The Tonight Show (think back to when the carpet under Johnny’s desk was green shag; yes, this goes *way* back), To Tell the Truth, and others let one settle down into your chair, feeling like you’ve pulled up to sit and reminisce with an old friend. More so, the film is shot and the story told in a way that holds the viewer’s attention, making one desire to know more, to learn more, to cheer on this elderly gentleman in his life’s work – – – and with his life’s love.
I did not get to see this film until the end of its run here in Jacksonville, but if you can find it on a screen near you, it’s definitely worth the time to watch. Otherwise, yes indeed, download it / dvd it / whatever it is that you do to watch it, I highly recommend you share ninety minutes with his story. It’s worth it.