Cast
View AllBilly McFarland
as Self - Fyre Co-Founder (archive footage)
Ja Rule
as Self - Fyre Co-Founder (archive footage)
Jason Bell
as Self - Former NFL Player (archive footage)
Gabrielle Bluestone
as Self - Journalist, Vice News
Shiyuan Deng
as Self - Product Designer
Michael Ciccarelli
as Self - Software Engineer
Mdavid Low
as Self - Fyre Creative Director
Samuel Krost
as Self - Fyre Media
Andy King
as Self - Event Producer
J.R.
as Self - Former Fyre Employee
Brett Kincaid
as Self - Director, Matte Projects
Mick Purzycki
as Self - CEO, Jerry Media
James Ohliger
as Self - Jerry Media
Grant Margolin
as Self - Fyre Marketing Director (archive footage)
Keith van der Linde
as Self - Pilot / Logistics
Crew
Director
- Chris Smith
Writer
- Chris Smith
Producer
- Mick Purzycki
- Chris Smith
- Danny Gabai
Reviews
Peter McGinn
Between downloads and streaming services, I have way too many shows and movies lined up to watch. This documentary on the Fyre Festival has been waiting for me for a long time. So today I figured the reason I haven’t watched it might point to the possibility I could start watching it, not like it, and get it off my waiting list.
But, as you might guess, I ended up watching the entire film. It won’t get any hyperbole from me for being the best of this or totally awesome at that, but it is entertaining and informative, if only as yet another warning that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true.
It describes how wealthy or moderately well off customers were duped and ripped off by an affable and persuasive entrepreneur named Billy McIntire who built a huge house of cards music festival through deceit and fraud and gullibility.
It is almost difficult to feel sorry for some of those well-off victims. They will live to spend again. The ones I feel bad about are the regular people, especially on the island where it was to be held, who performed work for the Festival and were never paid, a common trick used by wealthy, lying, immoral “lawyered-up” businessmen. What is almost as bad as the crime itself is the subsequent total lack of remorse as a Billy lived the high life and moved on to his next scam. Perhaps Billy’s conviction will at least prevent him from running for office.
Anyway, this film won’t change your life, but it is instructive in small ways and entertaining.
Sep 17, 2020
Thematic Analysis
Fyre represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Chris Smith brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2019, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Fyre took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 369 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Fyre shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Long Live Rock... Celebrate the Chaos, which focuses more on action than character development, Fyre subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like TOMORROW X TOGETHER: OUR LOST SUMMER and The Red Elvis explore similar territory, Fyre stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 18, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 38m
Where to Watch
