Sick: The Life and Death of Bob Flanagan, Supermasochist

This documentary chronicles the extraordinary life of Bob Flanagan, a performance artist, poet, and masochist who used his lifelong battle with cystic fibrosis as a canvas for his art. It explores his unique relationship with pain, his complex personal life, and his rise to notoriety in the avant-garde art scene. The film delves into his BDSM-influenced performances, his relationships, and his unwavering determination to live life on his own terms.

Sick received critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of a complex and challenging subject. Reviewers lauded Brett Morgen's sensitive yet direct approach to Flanagan's life, commending its raw honesty and artistic merit. The film was recognized for its unique insight into the intersection of pain, art, and life, though its graphic nature was acknowledged as potentially difficult for some viewers.

• A profoundly disturbing yet artistically significant exploration of pain and existence.

• Masterfully directed, offering an intimate and often uncomfortable look at a unique life.

• Praised for its raw honesty and powerful subject matter, despite its challenging themes.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally praise the film for its compelling and thought-provoking portrayal of Bob Flanagan's life, highlighting its artistic depth and the unique perspective it offers on overcoming adversity through art. Some viewers found the content intense, but the overall sentiment is one of admiration for Flanagan's spirit and the film's powerful storytelling.

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

Bob Flanagan's performances often involved inserting objects into his body, most famously a 10-inch metal spike through his penis, which he referred to as 'The Spike'.