Which 2025 American documentary film by Tony Benna explores the story of André Ricciardi, who considers himself an 'idiot' for not getting a colonoscopy and consequently receives a terminal cancer diagnosis?

The 2025 American documentary film by Tony Benna, titled "André Is an Idiot (Review)," delves into the deeply personal and often humorous story of André Ricciardi, an advertising creative who confronts a terminal colon cancer diagnosis. Ricciardi candidly refers to himself as an "idiot" for having neglected to get a colonoscopy, a decision that ultimately led to his advanced illness. The film chronicles his journey through his final years, offering an unfiltered look at his battle with cancer, imbued with his distinctive wit and irreverence.

The documentary is a unique blend of tragedy and comedy, serving as both a heartfelt exploration of life and death, and a powerful public service announcement. Director Tony Benna, with Ricciardi's collaboration, employs a multimedia approach, incorporating traditional interviews, poignant family moments, and even darkly comical stop-motion animation to convey André's perspective. André's motivation for making the film was to leave behind a record of himself and to encourage others to prioritize preventative health screenings, hoping his story would inspire them to avoid a similar, preventable fate.

"André Is an Idiot" premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, where it garnered critical acclaim and won the Audience Award for U.S. Documentary, among other accolades. Reviewers have praised its ability to tackle a somber subject with a disarming sense of humor, making it an engaging and surprisingly uplifting watch despite its premise. The film masterfully balances André's raw honesty about his condition with his unwavering determination to find joy and meaning, even in the darkest of times, reminding viewers of the profound importance of listening to medical advice.