Hunter S Thompson once said, "When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro." And that's exactly what he did. He took his brand of journalism, with his eccentric nature and took to the campaign trail of 1972, documenting every bit that he could. In "Fear and Loathing: On the Campaign Trail '72," he took no prisoners, and branded the new form of gonzo journalism, which, in addition to news stories, also referenced his cynical opinions, as well as references to drug and alcohol use. It was a new concept to journalism, and Thompson never cared whether people liked it or not. 

Tonight, in Washington, D.C., as part of the SILVERDOCS Festival, "Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S Thompson" premiered. The documentary, narrated by Johnny Depp, has been hailed by critics and was praised at the Sundance Festival. I can only hope that it will reach the depths of the dirty south, and show up somewhere close to Birmingham so I can see it. Here's the trailer:

It's a shame that he decided to put an end to his life in February 2005. He spoke what the world was always afraid to say. He feared no one… no association… and no press. I can't wait to see the movie. That is, of course, if it ever makes it down this way. Of course, if it doesn't, there's always the DVD.

Update: The DCist ran a fantastic article on the SILVERDOCS screening and what to expect from the documentary. I can only say that I'm even more excited now. The film drops nationwide on July 4.