Brian's Story

[@fourlanterns1405]

I come back to this documentary again and again to keep me sober. RIP Brian, thank you for helping me with your story and so sorry how things turned out for such an intelligent and thoughtful man.

[@glenlilley4757]

Regards mate.

[@xyg6543]

This should be a reminder to everyone that mental health can affect ANYONE and it's no joke. R.I.P. Brian x

[@GottSegneUns]

this sad story also shows how important a caring family is, for someone with mental illness...

[@Tweeterandthemonkeyman]

@@GottSegneUns I think a caring family can only help so much though.

[@jackallensworth8736]

@@GottSegneUns But I think too often people bring up mental illness as a factor, but what does this really explain? Nothing. Countless persons have mental illness, but don't become or stay homeless or poor. There are threads not pursued. I think too, bipolar or "manic-depressive" condition is a catch-all for other life phenomena. Does manic-depressive condition as a diagnoses not stand on the acceptance of the chemical imbalance theory?

[@theBipolarVegan]

@@jackallensworth8736 we all have mental health issues & have to either deal with it ourselves or with friends & family... I have Bipolar type 2 & ADHD. Luckily I've had the right care, support & guidance, most of which I've had to push for myself. I could have quite easily be living on the streets. I had a wife, house, cars, jobs & businesses & these have all disappeared over the years. It's been a long journey, but finally getting better. Now on a mission to help others through a podcast/vlog/blog & interviewing others with their experiences. Namaste brothers and sisters 😸✌️❤️

[@manephewlenny6401]

@@theBipolarVegan I don't think people understand how a condition such as bipolar can feed into addiction and lead to a very rapidly deepening downward spiral. You use to alleviate the awful symptoms today but it makes tomorrow even worse.

[@davidmcnulty3618]

This documentary has haunted me for 18 years since It first aired in May 2001. It took just a few key words on google to finally track it down. The sheer eloquence of the Man when he was relaxed and seemingly in control in contrast with his terrifying moments where he flys of the handle, but never completely, makes this just the most painfully honest ‘ fly on the wall ‘ experience I’ve seen to date on mental health. It’s a shame that we won’t probably get this realness in a documentary again as most film makers will either shy away from the candidness or be overly censored by their bosses. Like others have said, the fact that someone with everything seemingly going for them can be reduced to this in a matter of 20 or so years, even whilst clinging to their dignity is truly heartbreaking.

[@jennawalden8547]

@@_TOD33 it was lovely that you met him. He seemed a very likeable character despite his problems

[@shamelesshussy]

It’s about mental illness, not health. Calling it ‘mental health’ when you mean mental illness diminishes its severity. I care less about finessing a supposed stigma and more about getting help ASAP. Misnaming things ‘mental health’ may make you feel better or progressive, but it is sickness.

[@andybigchief]

It’s made a massive impression with me too , I watched it from when it was first aired . Extremely real and sad R.I.P

[@hangsambo12]

I always come back to this documentary. Every 3 years or so. I’m an alcoholic. I’m sober. This reminds me what I was like and what I could be like with one decision.

[@dranyamjust6303]

Yes.... and thank you 'cousin', what a truly wonderful human being you are

[@whatshisname3304]

Brian Davis, the former Campaign editor and writer whose death aged 55 was reported last week, was the world’s worst-organised person in every aspect of his life bar one, writes Bernard Barnett. Characteristically, his editorship lasted precisely one week, around Christmas 1984. He took the chair, sifted through the mountain of paper on his desk, brooded over it for a few days, then decided it wasn’t for him. The exception to the chaos that perpetually surrounded him was his writing. Between the crash-bang-wallop of its news pages and the job ads, Campaign has been fortunate through the years in publishing wonderfully fine writing from the likes of Jeremy Bullmore, Chris Wilkins, Peter Mayle, Gerry Moira and Michael Manton. I don’t think any of them would dispute that Brian was the finest of them all. Brian’s authorship of an item was instantly detectable, whether it was a diary paragraph or a 2,000-word feature. A sublime choice of words and imagery, and his quizzical and often unexpected way of putting them together, were his trademark. Only Brian could devote the first half of an article on California advertising to star-spotting in a Hollywood hotel lobby and make it relevant to an understanding of the local ad scene. He could be deadly serious or screamingly funny, offering pure enjoyment in either mode. Because of its flowing elegance, you could read a Davis piece in about half the time it took to read somebody else’s. And then, usually, you went back and read it again. Infuriatingly for the rest of us plodders, he never did much rewriting or polishing; as with Mozart (not too fanciful a comparison), the composition sprang fully formed on to the The enigma of Brian’s life is how someone who brought perfect discipline to his writing managed to foul up everything else. Possibly the gift was so all-consuming there was nothing left over, but he was also continually dogged by catastrophe. His editorship of Creative Review (1982-84) was outstanding principally because another highly talented writer, Jenny Manton, devoted herself to organising the magazine so that Brian’s flair could have free rein. Her tragic early death was a blow from which he never truly recovered. Compounding that, his family circumstances were also difficult and enervating. While his last years were marked by poverty and distress, I prefer to remember the glorious times when he never missed a deadline and you savoured the moment he handed in his copy. After he became a Campaign reporter in 1970, he spent his career writing mostly about advertising and film-making - movies as well as commercials - for a variety of magazines and newspapers. He was never cynical, always fair, and often profound. I count it a great honour to have worked with him. This is from Campaign the magazine he worked for.

[@winros3042]

Very well said.. you are a great journalist do me a favor buttercup when the others are playing their drums...please for Ms. W.. PLEASE, move a little over to the side! Comply to anyone who's telling you what to write if that's the case why become a journalist. I am laughing at myself I am a hitting closet artists however, someone will recognize work maybe not today maybe not tomorrow but I know for sure it has to be someday soon Miz win ain't getting any younger! Love and peace to you darling

[@SlimKeith11]

Thank you for sharing it, mental illness is devastating.

[@jemmajones6013]

This documentary is one of the best i have seen. So raw and shows the truth of what people who have an addiction live. So sad 😞

[@christinemorse5100]

As an alcoholic, I had 23 years sobriety and after my husband of 24 years left unexpectedly, I relapsed, it's been eight years. I have spent these years seeking the correct treatment and I finally have hope. I spent a year in therapy with a private psychologist and learned of several factors contributing to chronic relapse. Childhood sexual abuse raised with a violent alcoholic father, Major Depressive Disorder, ADHD not previously diagnosed, married to a man who is emotionally abusive. I always thought the alcohol dependence was because I am bad. I have finally decided I have to leave my marriage as he is not supportive but destructive and has been able to keep me in the place of shaming character weakness. I have hope. 50% of adults with late diagnosed ADHD have substance abuse as well. It all makes sense finally. It took 58 years. Most people with similar circumstances will not make it. I hope people will start looking underneath the behavior and educate themselves instead of judge.

[@w1lf1ewoo]

THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR LIFE...WHAT WE SAW WITH BRIAN LEADS MANY OF US TO QUESTION OURSELVES...I AM AN ALCOHOLIC LIVING IN HONG KONG FOR 20 YEARS AND I HAVE SEN MANY OF MY FRIENDS LIKE BRIAN... WE FEEL A LITTLE BLASE ABOUT IT, WELL WE ALL GO SOONER OR LATER ETC, LETS HAVE ANOTHER DRINK AND WATCH THE SUNSET...BLAH BLAH, BUT THIS DOC. IS A PROFOUND DOCUMENT TO THE DESTRUCTIVENESS OF HUMAN BEHAVIOR NOT DIRECTLY WITH ACLOHOL

[@TheFusedplug]

I'll be open myself here the last 8 weeks with a relapse in the middle which was a severe wake up call (thank God) I kicked 4 habits = Alcohol, Heroin (smoked never injected not that it really matters )Crack and cigarettes. My girlfriend of 1 year has quit 2 class A drugs but is struggling massively with ALCOHOL that in itself has put a massive strain on us as a couple but onto my next part which I feel is relevant to Brians story, I've gone into rages similar to Brian but not quite as severe it's a lot of verbals and at worst some objects hurled the latter not quite that often about 1 in 10 rages I learned to calm them down but more in the way of less frequent than actually calming the nature of each one down. When I was on the class A drugs I was relatively calm and "normal" but BROKE and lack of money naturally caused more arguments but what I have come to realise is I must have been self medicating since leaving school as my wages (once I started drinking ) were spent on random binge drinking episodes which landed me in prison a few times I always managed to remain industrious and only put my hands on car keys once when drunk back in the 90's and was banned as a result but always stayed away from driving if I'd drunk after that as I valued my licence too much but as a result of seeing this I'm considering getting checked out for any mental problems I may well have such as BPD and/or ADHD or indeed Bi polar. I've really had to draw strength and use the minimal drug treatment services where I live to make a concrete decision in my head "never ever be a drug addict or an alcoholic again " trust me folks I mean it I've wasted so many years and money and lost friends and the trust of family in the past and at 44 I've had enough but I am glad I have watched this documentary .. it's inspired me to at least consider I've been masking a mental condition (maybe more than one) so therefore must seek help because I'm not going to be very good support for my 24/7 alcoholic girlfriend if I'm not helping myself first

[@t.jackson2613]

Or sometimes u just got the bad Gene's and all it took was the first time. Also we are all completely responsible for what we choose to put into our bodies. I'm glad ur journey has helped u. But we always must remember our role. I didn't see one ounce of responsibility. Remaining teachable and always nurturing hope is the things that help me the most. Best of luck Hun.

[@lynkent677]

Miles good for you making the hardest decision to seek help. Find the right therapist is a must. I have been through inner child therapy and im going to be honest... Its a hard road...at times you are going to feel worse then better. This will be a judge on character...you have maturity knowing you need help..Good Luck and I wish the best not only yourself but your girlfriend..... Dont let the past ruin your future

[@cyrilsmith5706]

Christine good bless!

[@RighteousBrother]

This documentary has stayed with me ever since I saw it when it was originally broadcast all those years ago. I remember being entertained by it, and willing Brian to pull himself out of the tailspin he found himself in. Watching it now, knowing the outcome was just heart breaking.

[@graemejohnstone3779]

RIP Brian, I’ll say a prayer from you from one alcoholic to another, god rest and be at peace mate 🙏🙏

[@Richard-gl7xu]

Re-visited this after watching it back in the day, it hits hard still, RIP Brian, thank you for your bravery in making this documentary and to the producers sensitive and emotionally intelligent approach.

[@mariasher8793]

This is just so sad! An intelligent, successful, charming and handsome man, reduced by alcohol, but clearly it’s the mental illness that destroyed him. But still so eloquent. RIP Brian

[@ruddocj1]

😇

[@davidhumphries1146]

Alcohol fed his demons.

[@Humvee369]

The lady who gives him the money at the advertising agency reveals the degree to which he was liked and loved by colleagues and the industry...so sad that love is not enough to save a person sometimes.

[@lulusmith4877]

Me too keep returning to watch Brian aww so bloody sad and tragic Rest in love Brian ❤

[@_.Sparky._]

Such a fascinating and tragic story. Such a thin line between genius and absolute manic chaos and destruction. R.I.P.

[@marksmith8763]

a tortured and troubled genius and a fun guy rip Brian. I won't forget you x

[@cyrilsmith5706]

@@whatshisname3304 I'm both Belle ND.

[@dranyamjust6303]

God bless you Brian, I used to live in Aigburth and I remember you so well, you were a lovely guy, alcoholism is the worst illness ever!!!

[@Johnconno]

'Bohemian' Aigburth? Brian's bohemian.

[@patrickoneill8047]

The cousin shines here, gave a lot of love, must be a great human. In case the cousin was never thanked properly, may I do so now. Heaven awaits you.

[@user-vg5rv5xf4u]

He fucking destroyed the place 😂😂😂

[@lyannastark665]

@beyondego or just cared about their relative, was able to support him and so took the chance on doing so, although realising it might well be last chance saloon 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@tomstinchcombe344]

When he gets that house and you see what it is like after 2 days, then a week, you start to really understand how much of a chaotic situation his head was in. And you begin to understand how people couldn’t really help him. He was spiralling down. I’m not sure what could be done when someone is in this way.

[@causetheplumstasteyum7848]

Sad but true , the mental conditions he had combined with chronic alcoholism , a terrible way to be in , reality is he clearly couldn't take care of himself , he needed to be in the care of someone or a facility

[@brianfarrell3987]

One telling moment is when we see a shot of an LP cover torn in half and lying in the detritus in the kitchen sink. This after Brian stating how important music is in his life.

[@Seanryan2001]

Sadly, you can't protect someone from themselves. This is a heartbreaking story .

[@nicklloyd9291]

He needed to want the help to repair his broken heart, but sadly the pain was too big an obstacle for him to overcome so he made the choice to self destruct. 😢.. RIP Brian x

[@lynnmcintyre8116]

RIP Brian What a very clever man he was indeed, a very sad story. Brian you are now at peace hunny 🧡💛💙❤💜💚

[@cooper1867]

Almost 15 years sober here. Never going back.

[@billmason2785]

I cried...... because of the self destructive power of the human mind......We can all be detriments to ourselves..... very very 😢 sad .....RIP Brian

[@Jairzinho121]

He has lived on though through this doc

[@chickyface7537]

Yes, thats a nice thing to say x

[@manephewlenny6401]

His house was on Tramway Road, Aigburth. I only know this as I was looking to rent houses in the area and I couldn't remember where I'd seen that place and it was driving me batty until now when I watched this again. The scene of him walking down the road to the pub is on Aigburth Road and into The Albert on Lark Lane.

[@Daniel-ed6cb]

I'm currently in full blown alcohol addiction. I understand his story very similar. Been homeless lost jobs lost good woman in my life because of booze.its a love hate relationship. One minute I'm in a nice clean house and have money next few days I'm on the street sleeping rough and no money because of my taste for booze.

[@davidlynch9049]

Been there. Hope you are getting the support you need. It hard, but I but not impossible. Keep fighting. Good luck.

[@millicent7368]

same. it's tough. hope your ok

[@hardingtutors7934]

Get the help buddy . AA . Your gp. Don't stay silent.

[@Marky.H]

I am the same buddy. I pray for you 🙏

[@mikeheaton8424]

I didn’t take it that far , but I was bad to drink. The secret is to not take that first drink.

[@69robinwood]

What an incredible piece of film making, as sad as it is a profound reminder how fragile we are. Cant help wonder when his chronic drinking started. Cannot also help wonder if folk like this can even be helped perhaps?

[@brianfarrell3987]

I think by the time this documentary was made he was beyond help. Death was inevitable, sadly.

[@TheMundusvultdecipi]

I remember this docu pretty well, saw it over a decade ago the first time. An intense portrait and one of the better docus on mental health I've seen. Brian seemed on a suicide mission and in denial about his state.I agree 100% with his observation that most people live lifes of quiet despair but he obviously was in despair too despite claiming he was having daily laughs and well. Sad ending for a man of his talents.

[@discodroidz429]

Brutal. Heartbreaking. I see myself in every molecule of this documentary, only with half the wit, talent and lust for life ad Brian. The human condition, what a bastard

[@lisaparker773]

Very Sad.Anyone Who Suffers From Mental Illiness Please Go Get Help. There Never No Shame In Getting Better. God Bless. RIP Brian. Thank You For Sharing His Story.

[@forreal245]

Lisa Parker...Unfortunately, those that do suffer never realize there's anything actually wrong with themselves.

[@marycull3607]

Lisa Parker Alcoholism is a mental , spiritual, and physical Illness. The three go hand in hand. It's a very complicated Illness. Not many Doctors understand it. Usually very creative ppl.

[@marycull3607]

for real Yes they do know. They don't feel apart of anything. It's a very lonely Illness. And denial stops them from seeking help.

[@causetheplumstasteyum7848]

I assure you alot of doctors DO fully understand it Denial along with a big list of other strong factors ,

[@kitty2karenlongjacket406]

This made me cry. Heartbreaking....

[@cyrilsmith5706]

Me too,kitty!

[@Tweeterandthemonkeyman]

@@cyrilsmith5706 prick, and u know u r, deep down, or maybe not so deep....u know u are.

[@TheFusedplug]

This was very sad because beneath all his masking up with alcohol was a very intelligent guy. I will be doing some more research on his younger years I'm wondering if he was functioning the same and just hiding it very well and the alcohol problem contributed to make him even more disorganised /out of sorts .. spinning out of control. A tragic life I hope these days treatment has improved and they can manage to crack the code with his type of condition so they can get the best out of people he was certainly on the up at one point and very accomplished then suddenly a week in as editor of a magazine the mental disorder he had, had obviously started it's course ... RIP Brian

[@t.jackson2613]

Sooo sad. Such a good looking handsome show stopping good looks when he was younger and a degree from Cambridge. What addiction and mental Illness can do to a person and their family. Nothing can compare.

[@janemills1839]

T. Jackson Yes, he was a very handsome Man, and watching him go down the slippery slope is awful, so intelligent and obviously pressured to perform, it's no wonder he drank, then comes the chaos at home and in his head, so he has another drink. So sad.

[@3rdeyemusic449]

So sad really heartbreaking RIP 🙏🏾 Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.God Bless

[@adjusted-bunny]

I like his cooking style. It is so .......avant-garde.

[@vanessawoodward3410]

Heart braking film, how did such a beautiful man slip though the noose of help, if no one spotted his cries for help W T F .made me cry so much, such a waste of life, and great British talent , never your fault Brian, alcohol made you so ill and exasperated your mental health. God bless your tender heart. R I P.x

[@shamelesshussy]

I saw 47 minutes filled with people bending over backwards to help him.

[@TomthatiscalledTom]

Poor man. He was undoubtedly very talented but the demons triumphed RIP

[@paulwest9894]

this story is tragic and I have watched now about 10 times and I would love to have met Brian all those years ago as this can happen to anyone from any walk of life REST IN PEACE Brian x

[@supergrahamg]

I am curious to know why you have watched it so many times; presumably it contains a truth or consolation that you keep returning to ? you see Brian as a sympathetic figure, yet clearly he was lost in his own life. It is a powerful piece of film making; there are many like this on you.tube about different aspects of deviant human behaviour, a rich resource, I have found. Perhaps it is the sympathetic tone of the female narrator ?

[@brianfarrell3987]

A documentary that has fascinated me for years. The man had a sparkling intellect but without a major shock intervention with regard to his mental health and alcoholism he was on a path to destruction and death and nothing more. Interesting to compare this documentary to the one about journalist Ed Mitchell who was reduced to homelessness because of his alcoholism. In his case he had the sufficient mental strength to pull himself back from the abyss.

[@user-sh2mk8ew4c]

If he had a steady real cash flow like $5,000.00 pounds a month he'd been dead a long time ago. That's what happened to my mother. I once heard in an AA about 20 years ago the worst thing for an alcoholic is a pocket full of money. How true that is.

[@sarahalbers5555]

Robin Williams on e said "cocaine is God's way of telling you are making too much money". Takes longer to hit bottom when you have cash.

[@Johnconno]

@@sarahalbers5555 Coke took me right to the bottom, it's the only useful thing about it.

[@tinamartin4133]

R.I.P Brian x

[@stuartwilcock8113]

Felt so sorry for Brian going from living comfortably to being on the streets remember watching it 2001 weres time gone rip Brian God bless ya

[@olivia6063]

I'm 55 years old. Have never touched alcohol. But I've seen how alcoholism can end. My loved brother in law drank himself to death. It was a very hard, painful death. My nephews sat by his bed day and night until his body gave up. The doctors tried everything, it was too late. One of my friends drank a lot, she was an outgoing fun girl. She started drinking to much when she was 40. Sat at home and had alcohol day and night. We did not know, she was good at hiding how much she drank.When we finally could get in to her house and take her to hospital it was too late. Her liver, kidneys and heart just stopped working. She died 2 days later at the hospital, 50 years old. Please all of you who's trying to stop drinking: Remember you can do this. If you're watching this then that's step one. You're worth living a good life without this poison.

[@whatshisname3304]

i agree with your sentiments and glad you could give hope to people in alcoholic addiction. BUT its too, not to. too late, too late. one o more, i know it's petty but god that irritates me.

[@olivia6063]

@@whatshisname3304 Yes I saw my mistake. Sorry, I'm Swedish. English is my third language :) I'm very petty about Swedish and French.

[@naelyneurkopfen9741]

@@olivia6063 I would have never guessed English wasn't your first language!

[@olivia6063]

@@naelyneurkopfen9741 Aw thank you.

[@susanmcdonald-timms3202]

olivia That’s very sweet

[@helveticaneptune537]

He was such talented man

[@rebeccam1395]

What a tragic story and one that proves that nobody is safe from becoming homeless or suffering from mental illness. The story made me cry😩

[@leebay6093]

At 34:11 Onwards. I can see he's in the chaotic throws of mania , no sleep, disorganised thinking, speech- so sad for us to witness this I'm sure he feels different to how we see it, his mother must have been a very stable influence in his life- his ending was heartbreaking- RIP Brian

[@causetheplumstasteyum7848]

He really should have received more help , for the DSS to just hand out 700 pounds in one go to someone suffering from chronic alcoholism really wasn't a smart move

[@davidhumphries1146]

They wouldn't be sure of that.

[@helenalovelock1030]

Devastating. He want straight to the pub after the £150 and £700 he had. Crying watching this. Im hope his story will help many people realise how things can get.

[@fourlanterns1405]

It’s not the DSS’s responsibility to police where the money goes after it is handed over to the person entitled to it, government agencies do not have the time and resources to check whether everyone who rightfully claims money will blow it if they get a lump sum in their hands.

[@NxDoyle]

It was never going to end well. Brian's manic episodes were clearly long and strong enough for him to believe that he had his illness under control. Sadly, it was apparent right from the start that he was not treating his illness in a disciplined fashion. But that's one of the big headkickers about mania. The point of greatest need intersects with the point of least inclination.

[@inblack-d9d]

there is not treatment for alcoholism. once you become an alcoholic it is for lifetime

[@causetheplumstasteyum7848]

@@inblack-d9d The cravings and " addict " within may always be there but people CAN turn their lives around , this was far much just just alcohol addiction alone

[@davidlynch9049]

@@inblack-d9d There is a lot of treatment for alcoholism if you want it. No one can make you stop drinking but you.

[@jackcorrigan6258]

30:19 "Why don't things work for me? Can we go and have a drink?" Incredible. As others have commented, this documentary has been extremely helpful in keeping me sober, and for that, Brian and the documentarians have my thanks.

[@fiphuket2010]

It must be completely exhausting living this way. I drink once in a blue moon and it totally drains me for days. I can't imagine drinking like this and sleeping on the streets in the cold and wet. My body couldn't take it that's for sure

[@lesleystocks5318]

I’ve watched this documentary a few times over the years .. it’s so sad but he was so positive initially always thinking things would work out .. but everytime something started going well he would destroy it all .. if only he could have had help or intervention or just something

[@steveswitzer4353]

Every few years I watch this when life is giving me a kicking and realise it’s not that bad and curb my drinking it’s a real lesson

[@adjusted-bunny]

To him a pan is like a canvas on which he is creating a work of art.

[@davidburrows4801]

You obviously don't do any cooking if you thought that was a pan 😂

[@forreal245]

Most mentally ill self-medicate with alcohol. This is a tragic story.

[@racheldemain1940]

for real. I am mentally ill and not gone near alcohol!! If anything I need a clear head to get as well as I can be!!

[@ladylaynefairchild8146]

My girlfriend self medicates with alcohol. She’s now on depacote and has been sober for serval months. That medication saved her life and our relationship.

[@whatshisname3304]

if only there was a better alternative than antidepressants.

[@scoooter78]

@@whatshisname3304 There are better options, but the almighty Government has made them illegal. As such, they're too expensive (and risky) for people to use.

[@ChristopherJRobin]

It's surprising that there's no Wikipedia article on Brian Davis

[@shamelesshussy]

So create one

[@linleysmith4528]

Rest in peace Brian 🙏 such a tragic ending 😢

[@adjusted-bunny]

When he let the plate fall - together with the music - it was like in an old slapstick film.

[@kikistick]

You just cant help someone who really doesn't want help

[@sheenagray2324]

This is very very sad what a great guy

[@heidiyeo6802]

Rest in Peace Brian.....

[@beebeeflash2614]

i feel for his cousin. utterly destroyed that home in less than two months!

[@nh6central]

Wasn't looking too good after two days ;

[@cyrilsmith5706]

This story is just so bloody,sad!

[@edwardwoodward8052]

RIP Brian, gone but never forgotten x

[@icucingme]

First time seeing this doc, was not familiar with the story being a yank. Was not ready for such an awful ending. RIP Brian, I am sure you are writing for the Heaven Daily Gazette❤

[@stateagent8823]

Great character, despite his 'troubles'....

[@jamesshielssoberlife.3701]

This helps me stay sober also. Blimey, he was 54, my age now! I think was shot early 00's if i remember. The 00's was a pretty insane time though!

[@laraoneal7284]

2020. RIP. SO sad at 55.

[@sicooper4230]

I had a guy like that living below me. Nearly set fire to his apartment,got rescued,went out to celebrate and ended up smashing his skull and dying on the sidewalk outside the bar..a lot of journalists at that time drank to excess to close a deal on a story (sales reps the same closing on a deal) it was almost expected to drink within the job.

[@brookecarr1255]

This has to be one of the saddest videos I ever seen. Maybe, hopefully, some people who have everything will watch this and see how it can happen to anyone. Just maybe those people won't be so quick to turn their noses up, turn their backs or judge others. The homeless are people too, most of them play no role whatsoever for what has happened to them. Not all are druggies or alcoholics.

[@sezthet1]

Bipolar and alcoholism go together like cheese and chutney, unfortunately.

[@revivedfears]

Akulina11 now I'm hungry

[@rajesh.x]

chutiyae

[@DMWBN3]

My step 'dad' had both. He wouldn't drink for a few years at a time then for months, lock himself in a bedroom with vodka. He died a sad lonely old man recently I heard (he was a nasty, vile person). His son, my half brother hadn't spoken to him in twenty years.

[@DMWBN3]

I think he may have a touch of Tourette's.

[@version736ha2]

I have had both. That is, cheese and chutney

[@mikeysaint4368]

At some point, his end was ineviable. It was a matter of when, not if. His positivity helped him carry on through all of his minor disasters, but while he had hope he was never able to reach real rock bottom and objectively assess his behaviour. Given a nice house to live in, it was reduced to a state of degradation in two days, just as £700 had eveporated in three. He was simply incapable of looking after himself. If you don't wake up one morning and see that you've turned a neat home into a rubbish tip and a health and fire hazard, then things can only continue to travel downhill. Brian was an unfunctioning alcoholic, which is quite rare amongst heavy drinkers. Most can have the semblance of a normal life, and some can even hold down steady jobs, but Brian's bipolar (which he chose to have only sporadic treatment for) made any attempts at having a structured life impossible. When he got money, metaphorical fireworks went off in his head and he felt the need to blow it all hedonistically. It's a common trait for those with manic depression. Life's a rollercoaster of highs and lows, in an endless loop. He probably really did believe that he'd sort himself out till the last.

[@hannahw4769]

Unfortunately, that is true.

[@markvickers2607]

Perfectly summed up 👍

[@Harry-fk5of]

Right? I wouldn't be surprised if he was contemplating how it was all going to work out whilst sitting on that ledge in the moments before his death.

[@Stranglerxx77]

I remember seeing this and always remember him and now sadly you would be lucky to get any help in our increasingly dysfunctional society

[@christopherhayes737]

The poor man ❤️

[@mikewatt8706]

when he started cooking in Liverpool i got very worried that the entire street would burn down

[@walterdewhite3154]

one of the most amazingly bizarre & thought provoking documentary films I've ever seen.

[@patmustardlive]

What a fantastic cook.

[@mikeheaton8424]

I was laughing,imagine how it tasted. I watch these to keep me on the straight and narrow.

[@gerardryan4140]

Fair play to Brian's Cousin for the housing support..

[@bgmeadows6085]

So very sad. Mental health issues still aren't taken as seriously as they should be by governments.

[@causetheplumstasteyum7848]

A lot of them are getting better , its just so difficult because caring for people , especially in cases when people need 24/7 care , it costs soooo much to fund , the reality with this case , he needed a full time carer , he clearly couldn't look after himself , its awful

[@elijahstewart5100]

Sorry Mr. Brian for u and your family

[@jethrocheyenne]

What a tragedy. He was filmed but nobody stepped forward to help him. Imagine how many more Brians there are that people 'see' but yet they are invisible.

[@deanrestorick3179]

totally agree they should have helpded him

[@simonacland9028]

Always wondered the same thing with these kinds of documentaries. I could not stand by and watch, he seemed to be in great denial but he was smart enough to recover with help

[@whatshisname3304]

@@simonacland9028 he did get some help. but i think he had nt drank for a while and he got pissed and fell. Just bad luck.

[@tobyrouse9146]

I think they did try to help him, I suspect this was the real source of the social worker visit and then the psychiatric interevention

[@lynkent677]

How sad.....Mental Health have no Idea about alcoholism... They need to treat the underline addiction..The reasons people are addicted is the pain... Find what is causing the pain...usually childhood issues is why they self medicate ...There is always an underline reason use of defense mechanisms are used... This story is one off many in such same circumstances...Its heart breaking... I can reconmend a book that may help those that are suffering Dr Garbour Mate on addictions. Which all that are suffering hope and recovery.. God Bless

[@VelcroKittie]

Gabor is amazing

[@amandafeliciano542]

Underlying...also I am reading Dr. Mate's book right now, it's fantastic!

[@Harry-fk5of]

What a shame. He seemed slightly healthy and more in control right at the end there. I wouldn't be surprised if he was in deep contemplation about how his life was going to turn good the moment he fell off that ledge. Alcohol and ciggies ruining another life.

[@janwarriner5037]

Tragic...no words....

[@carolineclancy7989]

I found this documentary extremely sad to watch. It clearly shows that alcoholism is a potential issue for anyone and everyone regardless of education and social background. There needed to be an intervention years before that genuinely helped Brian in understanding his issues. At the point of this documentary Brian was in total denial and seemingly unaware of how far he had fallen. Where were the Addiction services and the Mental health system? And why did family and friends give him money and accommodation which provided him with every opportunity to drink, yet they were never really there for Brian to support him and any Recovery treatment plans. It seemed to me that this was a terribly sad story, but a clear warning that none of us are infallible to addictions.

[@angelaandersons7918]

Just so sad - it just goes to show u, ANYONE can fall on tough times, a lovely friend of mine directed me here, after similarities of Lanre fehintola's life... God bless both 🙏

[@timothyosullivan222]

Tragic! R. I. P. Brian

[@robert8884]

Such a tragic story and loss of talent. Just imagine if he had his own TV cooking show though? "Fine dining with Brian" it'd have been a hit for sure.

[@mikewatt8706]

i must say i wasnt expecting that end. i guess in a way his pain is over. rip

[@christopherhayes743]

So sad to see the man like that.he was nice.

[@BobBob-uv9fq]

Blame this blame that ,but also blame yourself for taking too much drink .take responsibility,get help

[@robert8884]

Exactly.

[@michaelpout9701]

The shear destruction of alcohol I'm an alcoholic myself very sad

[@AllansStation]

Sad, and tragic. But for the grace etc, go I

[@patrickstutt86]

This might just save a few lives.

[@khalilrazak6486]

So sad, such an intelligent person but unfortunately because of his mania and alcohol addiction he suffered. This just goes to show that anyone even rich, famous, intelligent etc people can become addicts, addiction doesn't discriminate.

[@davidhumphries1146]

The loss of his mother was pivotal. As with other middle aged men without a significant female other.

[@sicooper4230]

So true David.

[@c.elizabeth4503]

Knew he was going to trash that house. Big mistake letting him move in by himself.

[@FlyAmeliaEarheart]

A very well intentioned relative indeed. Obviously huge-hearted.

[@katmandoo-o9b]

brilliant documentary about the the human mind and addiction

[@michaelmcginley7930]

Powerful and moving. would it act as a deterrent to other people in a similar situation as brian ? probably not as most don't realise how precarious their situation is when they have behaviours like brian

[@merson812]

So, so, so, sad.

[@janemills1839]

I have watched this at least 10 times and each time I see something I has missed, it's just so sad, Cambridge educated, great job, money, status and yet the booze took him. Journalism in the eighties was the perfect place for someone to drink themselves to death. There was so much money flowing in hospitality and Companies would throw money at their staff and clients for entertainment. He probably had mental issues long before he joined Campaign. It's actually very upsetting to look at this because I know the outcome.

[@supergrahamg]

It is a powerful piece of film-making but there are many documentaries about addiction and many sympathetic protagonists. I found it interesting superficially because I worked in advertising in the 1980s in London, but principally because my sister is an alcoholic so nothing Brian did surprised me; I think he cuts a sympathetic figure because he is so lost, but equally relevant, the film director/producer does not implicitly or explicitly assert a political or moral position (unlike Werner Herzog, whose liberal stance diminishes his otherwise extraordinary U.S. death row documentaries) and the narrator is a female with a sympathetic affect in her voice (something I like). Therein lies, I think, the merit of this morality tale. It is a non judgmental piece of story-telling which describes a human truth. What do you think ?

[@janemills1839]

Graham Grimmett I doubt there will be any similar documentaries on the subject, it's almost taboo, like you I found the Narrator helped tell the story sympathetically, I recognised her voice, dug around Google and she is Juliet Stevenson, famous in her time, has been in several dramas, Truly Madly Deeply, Bend it Like Beckham, and Emma. I have known some serious drinkers in my time, and seen the effects on family, Careers ruined, I think it's the worst addiction, it's all so desperate and the Film shows the decline in this Man in real time.

[@jennawalden8547]

@@janemills1839 yes. I’ve seen the actress. I very much like her. She’s acted with Timothy spall in Pierrepoint and the Enfield haunting. She played his wife both times.

[@glenlilley4757]

What a very sad story,bless him.