Those going to concerts, speaking events, nightclubs, arena events and other high profile happenings have no clue in what goes on behind the scenes. The documentary Bodyguards: Secret Lives from the Watchtower tells it all with film, video, photos and firsthand accounts of one of the most dangerous jobs in the world.
Sure most of us have some idea of what it takes to be a bodyguard for the likes of Justin Bieber who has to be escorted to his concerts and parties. You know, a big burly guy stands feet away from the star in crowds so huge its one big mosh pit. But, for Mickey Arana shielding’s more than a job, it’s more of an opportunity to be a protector of a person who’s a star.
From one extreme to another we find Bodyguards everywhere, but some extremely good ones are watching over the likes of gangster James Whitey Bulger. You would think the organized crime leader of the Winter Hill Gang in Boston wouldn’t need a “bodyguard” with his henchmen floating all around. But, you’d be wrong, especially since Kevin Weeks would even take a bullet for him because it’s his job, not a member of the gang.
The five stories are real and sometimes alarming with a little profound in between. Even Nelson Mandela had a bodyguard and 24 seven he was surrounded by not one, but three. Sometimes it’s tedious waiting around from your charge’s next move. Excitement may not be allowed when it comes to guarding someone, but being in the thick of it all it’s hard to avoid. The adrenaline pumps and protection continues but the focus never lets up.
Direction by Jaren Hayman is very good taking his audience from entertainment to violence. He introduces his bodyguards then works them into the film with personal intrigue experienced by the nature of his job. Their stories become Hayman’s film that shows honor, street smarts, agility, focus, foresight and much more while heeding the wishes of the boss.
Bodyguards: Secret Lives from the Watchtower has not been rated by the MPAA, but contains violence and language. The movie opens in select theaters this weekend. Be cautious when deciding to allow immature children see the film as it does have scenes that are inappropriate for youngsters.
FINAL ANALYSIS: An intriguing film that captivates throughout.
Additional Film Information:
Cast: Justin Bieber, Mikey Arana, Anton Kalaydjian, Rory Steyn, Tairon Coronel, Jacquie Davis
Narrated by: Kim Coates
Directed by: Jaren Hayman
Genre: Documentary
MPAA Rating: Not Rated, contains violence, language, drugs
Running Time: 1 hr. 30 min.
Release Date: December 2, 2016
Distributed by: Gravitas Ventures
Writer, critic, film editor John Delia, Sr. has been on all sides of the movie business from publications to film making. He has worked as a film critic with ACED Magazine for more than 20 years and other publications for a total of 40 years. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Florida. John is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association and Critics Association of Central Florida Send John a message at jdelia@acedmagazine.com
