‘Don't Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever’ Netflix Review - Bizarre and Interesting

Bryan Johnson's ambitious pursuit of immortality is at the heart of the documentary "Don't Die-The Man Who Wants to Live Forever " For the longest time, the idea of living forever seemed synonymous with fiction—think vampires or fantastical elixirs. But Johnson’s rigorous approach to combating the inevitability of aging aims to dismantle this notion entirely.

The documentary dives into Johnson’s meticulous lifestyle, showcasing his relentless dedication to extending his lifespan. His day starts at 4:30 AM with a regimen of 54 pills, followed by a series of meticulously planned exercises and routines. By 8:30 PM, he’s in bed, ready to recharge for the next day. Johnson firmly believes that adhering to a strict routine is vital because, as he puts it, “the body loves it.” This belief underpins his entire approach, as he strives to achieve what many deem impossible—reversing the aging process.

The documentary is as much about Johnson’s personal journey as it is about the science behind longevity. Through interviews with his family members, including his parents and his son Talmage, we gain insight into his motivations and the emotional toll his quest has taken. His divorce is discussed candidly, highlighting the sacrifices he’s made in his relentless pursuit. These intimate moments provide a grounding contrast to the clinical nature of his experiments.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Don't Die" is its documentation of Johnson’s physical transformation. The film features footage of his increasingly smooth skin and the groundbreaking genetic transfusions he undergoes. According to his team, these efforts have reportedly reversed his biological age by five years. Whether viewers find this claim awe-inspiring or dubious, it undoubtedly sparks conversation about the potential of science to challenge natural limits.

However, "Don't Die" is not without its flaws. The documentary’s pacing feels unnecessarily drawn out. Several sequences are repetitive, with scenes of Johnson’s daily routine revisited multiple times. While his discipline is impressive, the overemphasis on these rituals detracts from the broader narrative. A tighter edit could have preserved the intrigue without losing its depth.

Additionally, while the documentary explores Johnson’s methods and the science behind them, it occasionally leans too heavily on his claims without enough critical examination. Viewers are left wondering about the broader implications of such experiments or the ethical considerations they might entail. A more balanced perspective could have enriched the narrative and provided greater context for Johnson’s controversial efforts.

Despite these shortcomings, "Don't Die" is undeniably thought-provoking. It raises profound questions about mortality, the lengths we’ll go to defy it, and whether such endeavors are worth the cost—both personal and societal. Johnson’s story is as inspiring as it is polarizing, making this documentary a fascinating, albeit imperfect, exploration of humanity’s ultimate dream: to conquer death itself.

In the end, "Don't Die" succeeds in capturing the viewer's attention, even if its length and repetitive nature might test their patience. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer in Johnson’s mission, the film will undoubtedly leave you contemplating the possibilities of science and the resilience of the human spirit.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times