Jessica Kiang reviewed Side by Side for The Playlist. We learn in this review that the film starts with a montage of film clips from past years, including Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, before delving into the subject at hand. As the film continues, we hear from a list of who’s who among directors and cinematographers as well as lesser known industry workers that weigh in on the digital vs. celluloid debate.
With respect to Mr. Reeves’ interviews, Ms. Kiang had the following to say:
Reeves can sound a little weak and stilted in voiceover, but we soon forgive him for it as his genuine interest in the subject reveals itself, as does his sensitivity as an interviewer, neither overly deferential nor overly chummy (even when David Lynch seems to enjoying playing with his name like it’s a toy, peppering his comments with “well you see, Keanu…” and “Keanu, the thing is…”).
Overall Ms. Kiang had a favorable view of Side by Side, saying:
For the film-literate, film-passionate viewer, “Side by Side” is simply a delightful experience, because to hear people we admire talk knowledgeably about the medium we care about has the effect of putting us back in touch with our own passion for it, whatever the format. [A-]
The entire review can be read at the Indiewire.