Sundance Review: André Is an Idiot is a Commendable Record of a Foolish Choice

      André Is an Idiot possesses an unrestrained honesty that is commendable, even if not all aspects are successful. The documentary centers on a straightforward and stark topic: talented advertising creative André Ricciardi failed to undergo a colonoscopy at the suggested age, and upon finally getting one, he discovered he had Stage 4 Colon Cancer. In reaction to this grim diagnosis, André chose to create a film about dying. It’s a daring concept, reminiscent of many of his commercial ideas and beyond.

      Directed by Tony Benna, the film is fast-paced and well-edited, filled with enjoyable music and lively animation that softens the harsh reality of cancer treatments like chemotherapy. Its tone reflects its subject: an amalgamation of denial, hope, and fatalism, consistently lightened by humor. Ricciardi is supported by a caring family, a group of friends, and a team of excellent doctors. Heartwarming moments arise, such as when André and his wife Janice share the story of how they began their relationship: she required marriage to remain in the country, he offered, and eventually, love blossomed. There are genuinely amusing scenes, including one where André and a friend find coins in a fountain, leading his friend to dryly ask him, “What would you wish for?” The film opens with a strikingly funny and memorable anecdote that lingers in the mind.

      However, there are parts that may test a viewer's patience. These include a lengthy segment focused on the painstaking process of choosing final words before death and a justification of André’s lifelong, rather absurd “no cops, no doctors” mantra, or at least a partial justification. He candidly admits his mistakes, and ultimately, the film serves as a well-crafted public service announcement advocating for timely colonoscopies. Besides that, it offers a bittersweet reflection on an unusual and intriguing life. There’s mention of a clever initiative to encourage colonoscopy screenings, which undeniably carries noble intentions.

      It is, frankly, wise to tread carefully when critiquing André Is an Idiot. At its heart, this is a well-made personal film with a crucial message about not overlooking medical advice. Its existence is valuable; people will view it, find humor, and gain knowledge. Whether the film or André himself captivated me— or if I found it largely lacking in humor— is almost irrelevant. Life is fleeting, and we should strive to embrace as much of it as we can.

      André Is an Idiot debuted at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and is set to be distributed by A24.

      Grade: C+