THE PRESS IS IN! - outstanding reviews for Jon Snow: A Last Big Story

‘The basic structure of the documentary is an inspired creative decision’ Nicholas Hilton

‘You can’t help feeling emotionally affected by it’ Scott Bryan

An inspiring film. An emotionally moving film. An encapsulating film. Jon Snow: A Last Big story reined in praises from numerous largely influential and powerful news outlets. This compelling film was widely applauded for its structural and creative make, as it tells the story of a passionate journalists experience after being diagnosed with Alzheimers. Not only did it The Guardian rate it 5 stars, it immediately reached the top of BBC Radio 5s must watch list. This consequently infers that the film had an inspirational, heart rendering impact on its viewers.

This documentary takes a different approach to storytelling by shifting the narrative from a saddening, intimate portrayal of Snows Alzheimer's diagnosis to an active, and empowering piece of investigative journalism, as Snow pursues one final major scoop. As The Telegraph notes, ‘What is fascinating is the film’s equanimity’. The programme's impact lies in its blend of deeply personal narrative and hard-hitting investigative journalism, reflecting Snow's lifelong commitment to exposing injustice. Wilson also praises the filmmakers' decision not to make Snow's illness the documentary's sole focus. Instead, by immersing viewers in the mining investigation, the film encourages admiration for Snow's determination and journalistic integrity while acknowledging the challenges of his diagnosis. The Independent also praised the documentary's structure, arguing that it gives Jon Snow "autonomy and dignity" while honestly portraying the realities of Alzheimer's. This balance between vulnerability and resilience is a recurring theme across many reviews, ultimately achieving Basement Films goal to ultimately raise awareness for the illness while not letting it define Snow as a person, and further exposing injustice, a theme across multiple films they have done.

Additionally,  not only was this film greatly applauded for its innoitative narrative style, the press also immensely appreciated its production model and cinematic techniques. The film crew did shots often on handheld cameras, creating  a slightly blurred and cloudy effect, intended to mirror the psychological effects of the illness and reflect uncertainty and disorientation that snow struggles with while trying to expose the mining industry. And as the film progresses, it is then juxtaposed with sharper, more clear shots to reflect the focus and determination that defined his long term journalist career. This reinforces the films empowering message that illness does not define Snow, its his enduring commitment to his career and exposing injustice

Ultimately, reviewers agreed that the documentary emphasizes Jon Snow's remarkable career, manages to challenge misconceptions about Alzheimer’s and raisies awareness of injustices all through its structural and creative film make.