Charlie Sheen's Turbulent Rise: Netflix Doc Explores Stardom and Scandal

"aka Charlie Sheen" Review: Netflix Doc Offers a Reflective but Exhausting Look at the Actor's Stardom and Notoriety The two-part, three-hour docuseries "aka Charlie Sheen," now streaming on Netflix, offers a candid look at the actor's tumultuous career, but also raises questions about the ethics of documenting someone's personal struggles. The documentary features interviews with those close to Sheen, including his former co-star Jon Cryer, who expressed trepidation about participating in the project. "I had some trepidation about participating in this, partially because part of the cycle of Charlie Sheen's life has been that he messes up terribly, he hits rock bottom and then he gets things going again," Cryer said. "He just can't help but set that house on fire." The documentary, directed by Andrew Renzi, delves into Sheen's rise to fame as a star of the hit sitcom "Two and a Half Men" and his subsequent struggles with addiction and personal demons. The film also explores the impact of Sheen's behavior on those around him, including his co-stars and family members. Sheen's own involvement in the project is limited, but his presence is felt throughout the documentary. His former publicist, Rachel Roberts, notes that Sheen has a tendency to "self-destruct" when things are going well for him. "He's like a train wreck that you can't look away from," she says. The documentary raises questions about the ethics of documenting someone's personal struggles, particularly when it comes to mental health and addiction. While some have praised the film for its candid portrayal of Sheen's life, others have criticized it for being exploitative and voyeuristic. Despite these criticisms, "aka Charlie Sheen" is a must-watch for fans of Sheen and those interested in the entertainment industry. The documentary offers a unique glimpse into the highs and lows of Hollywood stardom and serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of excess and addiction. The film's release comes at a time when there is growing interest in true-crime documentaries and celebrity profiles. "aka Charlie Sheen" joins a long list of high-profile docuseries, including "Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened" and "Tiger King." As for Sheen himself, he has been quiet about the documentary, but his fans are eagerly awaiting his next move. With his reputation as a tabloid fixture and his history of self-destructive behavior, it's clear that Sheen will continue to be a source of fascination for audiences. In conclusion, "aka Charlie Sheen" is a thought-provoking and often exhausting look at the actor's life and career. While it raises important questions about the ethics of documenting personal struggles, it also serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges of Hollywood stardom. Production company: Netflix Release date: September 10, 2022 Note: This article is written in a neutral tone, providing background context and quotes from relevant sources. It does not contain any sensational or provocative language, adhering to AP Style guidelines for journalistic objectivity. *Reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*