Individuals who have traversed the complex and often intimidating landscape of the American healthcare system may have considered the implications of dedicating significant time and resources not only to diagnosing health issues but also to engaging in proactive self-care. The Netflix documentary Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants To Live Forever delves into this subject, albeit with certain shortcomings. Directed by Chris Smith, the film centers on Bryan Johnson, a tech entrepreneur committed to addressing the persistent issue of aging. While it presents an interesting viewpoint, it tends to prioritize entertainment over profound social analysis — its limitations stem not from technical or artistic flaws, but rather from its overall perspective and philosophical depth. As the founder and CEO of Braintree, Johnson amassed his wealth through mobile and web payment innovations before selling his company to PayPal in 2013. Since that time, he has engaged in venture capital while focusing primarily on the pursuit of longevity. His fervent commitment is reflected in a comprehensive and groundbreaking personal anti-aging initiative he refers to as “Project Blueprint.” This program aims to decelerate the aging process and, theoretically, could even reverse some of the functional declines associated with aging for all individuals. Supported by a robust infrastructure, the initiative encompasses a range of practices, including diet, exercise, and a daily regimen of numerous supplements, alongside more advanced and experimental treatments.
The initial 15 minutes of Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants To Live Forever are filled with a multitude of intricate details, reminiscent of the specialized terminology often employed by business professionals to convey a sense of sophistication. However, viewers concerned about encountering a complex biology lesson can relax. Don’t Die does not delve into intricate scientific theories; rather, it diverts its focus from the specifics of Johnson’s health regimen. The film introduces Johnson’s teenage son, Talmage, who has reestablished a connection with his father after a divorce. From this point, the narrative unfolds to examine various facets of both the Blueprint and Johnson’s life, including his decision to transparently share all his health data for commercial use and his interest in inter-generational plasma therapy, among other topics. Smith first garnered attention with his 1996 film, American Job, a witty mockumentary that showcased the challenges of living on a minimum wage. However, he truly made a significant impact with the 1999 Sundance sensation American Movie, which illustrated the struggles of an eccentric aspiring filmmaker from Wisconsin. Over the years, Smith has cultivated a diverse career, recently directing high-profile multi-episode nonfiction series for platforms such as Netflix, Apple TV+, and Max. While his earlier works hinted at the emergence of a skilled and insightful storyteller of blue-collar life, much of his recent output has shifted to focus on the lives and challenges of the ultra-wealthy. In this context, Don’t Die aligns seamlessly with Smith’s body of work. The documentary is available for streaming on FlixHQ Movies.
