Watch Voyeur

Voyeur is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the fascinating relationship between a celebrated journalist and his enigmatic subject, a motel owner who has been secretly watching his guests for decades. The film is directed by Myles Kane and Josh Koury and was released on Netflix in 2017. The documentary focuses on the complex relationship between the journalist, Gay Talese and the motel owner, Gerald Foos. Foos has been anonymously observing his guests through specially designed peepholes he installed on the ceiling of certain rooms in his motel. Foos kept detailed notes about the guests' activities, from their sex lives to their conversations, which he documented in the 1960s and 70s. The film follows Talese as he works on the story for The New Yorker magazine, using Foos' diary entries as a basis for his article.

Throughout the documentary, Kane and Koury provide an intimate look at Talese's reporting process and his personal thoughts about the story. We see how the two men develop an unlikely friendship, with Talese confiding in Foos about his own personal and professional struggles while Foos starts to crave recognition for his voyeuristic activities. The film delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding journalism and the morality of Foos' actions.

Voyeur offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a man who dedicated his life to observing others. Foos' motivations for his voyeuristic behavior are complex, and the film invites viewers to make their own judgments about his actions. Is he a curious observer of human nature or a sadistic voyeur taking advantage of his guests' privacy? The film offers no easy answers but challenges the viewers to consider their own views on privacy and voyeurism.

Another interesting aspect of the documentary is the portrayal of Talese as both a journalist and a flawed human being. The film explores his personal life, including his relationships with his wife and children, which adds a layer of emotional depth to the story. Talese's own ethical lapses when it comes to the accuracy of his reporting are also examined, showcasing the complexity of portraying truth in journalism.

The filmmakers do an excellent job of creating tension and suspense throughout the film. The voyeuristic footage of Foos' guests is used sparingly, but effectively, to heighten the drama. The use of reenactments and archival footage also adds to the immersive experience, making the viewer feel as if they are part of Talese's reporting process.

Overall, Voyeur is a fascinating, thought-provoking documentary that explores complex themes such as privacy, voyeurism, and the ethics of journalism. It provides a unique look into the mind of a man who spent his life observing others and the journalist who documented his story. The documentary is a must-see for anyone interested in human nature, journalism, or the limits of privacy in the modern world.

Voyeur is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes.