Watch The Man Who Saw Too Much

The Man Who Saw Too Much is a 2016 documentary film directed by Trisha Ziff that features the life and work of Enrique Metinides, a legendary Mexican photojournalist who is best known for his images of crime scenes, accidents, and disasters in Mexico City during the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. The film explores Metinides' career as a photographer and his personal life, as well as the nature of photography and its impact on society.

The documentary begins with an introduction to Metinides and his work, as he talks about his fascination with death and his desire to capture its essence in his photographs. He describes how he started his career as a crime photographer at the young age of 12, and how he would often fake his press pass to gain entry into crime scenes. He also talks about his relationship with the police and the victims' families, and how he would often assist them with his photographs.

The film then takes us on a journey through Metinides' life and career, as we see his photographs of car crashes, murders, suicides, fires, and other tragic events that he covered as a photojournalist. We also hear from Metinides himself, as he talks about the emotional impact of his photographs and the ethics of his profession. He describes how he would sometimes feel guilty for taking pictures of people in their moments of despair, but also how he believed that his photographs served a greater purpose in documenting the reality of life and death in Mexico City.

Throughout the film, we also see interviews with experts and scholars who provide insights into the importance of Metinides' work and its impact on Mexican society. They discuss the role of photography in journalism and art, and how Metinides' photographs challenge our perceptions of violence and tragedy. They also explore the cultural, social, and political context of Mexico during the period when Metinides was active, and how his photographs reflect the changes and tensions of the times.

One of the main themes of the documentary is the power and limits of photography as a medium of communication and expression. Metinides' photographs are presented as both a testimony to the reality of violence and death, and a form of art that invites us to reflect on the value and meaning of life. The film also raises questions about the responsibilities of photographers and the impact of their work on the people and events they document. It asks us to consider the ethical implications of turning real-life tragedies into objects of art and entertainment, and whether this is a legitimate way of dealing with human suffering and trauma.

The Man Who Saw Too Much is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that provides a rare glimpse into the life and work of one of Mexico's most remarkable photographers. It offers a nuanced and complex portrait of Metinides and his legacy, and raises important questions about the role and ethics of photography in contemporary society. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in photography, journalism, art, and Mexican culture.

The Man Who Saw Too Much is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.