We’ve all had enough of celebrity documentaries that come across as nothing more than public relations spins, but finally, an unfiltered and raw documentary has come along that deserves your full attention. Today marks the premiere of “AKA Charlie Sheen” on Netflix, the two-part docuseries that tells the story of the Hollywood bad boy, from his childhood in Malibu to his rise to stardom as an international actor. I woke up early this morning to stream the series, and it’s an absolute five-out-of-five-star Netflix home run.
Before we dive in, here are three things to know about this unique docuseries and why you’ll want to check it out:
His Voice Throughout
One of the most powerful aspects of the “AKA Charlie Sheen” documentary is that it’s truly Charlie Sheen’s voice, from beginning to end. The documentary covers his life from when he was a child growing up with his parents in Malibu to his rise to fame and turning into a Hollywood icon. As Charlie recounts his early years, he shares great archival footage of him growing up in Malibu, along with his relationship with his family as he launched into Hollywood as a kid actor. I have to say, watching this portion of the series had me grinning ear to ear.
The most remarkable aspect of the series is how it solidifies his truth throughout the docuseries. To add to his own recollection of events and life, we get commentary from his friends, family, and other notable people who have been in his orbit throughout each chapter of his life, giving the viewer an ability to connect with each piece and moment in time. By the end, the overall compilation of voices involved creates a powerful three-dimensional story unlike any other celebrity documentary I’ve ever seen.
The Good With The Bad
From his “highs” to the infamous “rock bottom” era, this documentary does not hold back from providing a look at some of the most chaotic moments of Charlie’s life. The series features intimate details of his drug and alcohol abuse, his highly publicized fall from grace, his HIV diagnosis, his marriages and divorces, and the rape allegations he faced over the years. Charlie also opens up about his journey toward sobriety, and the docuseries is as much a story of redemption and personal development as it is a story of self-destruction.
We see coverage of his outrageous escapades, but we also get to see his work celebrated. In the most powerful and sobering way, we are reminded of his cinematic contributions, from his early breakout roles in films like Platoon and Wall Street, to his time being the highest-paid actor on television during Two and a Half Men. The series gives Charlie Sheen the voice that we have needed over the years to bring his side of the story to life, instead of the chaotic and frankly nonsensical interviews we have seen him do over the last few years.
Finding His Voice
Charlie Sheen’s personal struggles were out there for the world to see for many years, and most people understood what he was going through in terms of substance abuse. I know I did. What was lacking was his ability to have a space to have his voice be heard, unfiltered, and in an honest and candid way. In “AKA Charlie Sheen,” he finally has that space and, watching it, is a truly empowering feeling.
The series is also heartwarming as it relays the complex dynamic between Charlie and his father, Martin Sheen. Martin’s love and worry for his son is a recurring theme, as his father’s greatest hope was that Charlie would get help.
“Aka Charlie Sheen” is raw, real, and deeply moving. For viewers interested in a rare inside look into the life of someone who lived life in the spotlight, this is the series for you. Stream “AKA Charlie Sheen” on Netflix today.
