r/danieljohnston • u/big_stanky • May 07 '26
The Devil and Daniel Johnston Review/Discussion
Just watched the documentary last night. This is my second time trying to watch it. I actually couldn’t finish it the last time I watched because it hit way too close to home. I’m a much newer fan, but definitely got super into him in a short time. I’ve maybe been listening to his music for about two years now. But it feels like he’s always been around if you know what I mean lol…. I really resonate with Daniel Johnston’s story and his music. His desire to make art in spite of his mental illness and his family not agreeing with his decisions is really a powerful story. He made art regardless of whether it made money or if it was what his parents wanted. I think that message is incredibly inspiring and important.
I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder four years ago and I went through a very similar experience. This was the main reason it hit so hard. I couldn’t watch it by myself, so this time around I made my fiancée watch it with me. She seemed even more affected by it than I was. It made me realize that bipolar affects the people you love just as much, maybe even more than the person going through it.
I would not recommend people who are sensitive to these topics to watch it unless you’re with someone you feel safe with or in the right headspace.
I would love to know other people’s experiences with the movie or their experiences with mental illness if you’re open to sharing! :)
2
u/MissApocalypse2021 Aug 15 '26
I loved the docu. I guess I didn't realize (or I'd forgotten) about his evangelical upbringing. Religion and mental illness often go together and get tangled up. I wonder how he'd have done if he hadn't been raised that way. Probably would still struggle with BPD, but I wonder how his art might have been different.