Burt’s Buzz (2013) – Documentary Review

Director: Jody Shapiro
Runtime: 88 min
Rating: NR

People have always been interested in stories of how companies were created, or more specifically, how it is that ordinary people got rich. These kinds of stories awaken feelings of curiosity and inspiration in many, and thus are often glorified and romanticized. Burt’s Buzz comes with a similar kind of premise, but in a way that shows how not every story is filled with hardship and heroism, but rather sometimes all it takes is a calm hippy from Maine who never saw his own fame coming.

Despite the global popularity of renowned nature products Burt’s Bees, the story behind the company is not generally discussed or known by consumers. Burt Shavitz is the co-founder of the company, and the living legend that was forever immortalized in the company’s iconic packaging. Despite having taken part in the building of a project that is now worth millions, Burt does not live a lavish life, and he prefers the silent comfort he finds in nature and simplicity. The documentary follows Burt as he lives day to day in his farm, but also as he takes part in worldwide events that make use of his image to promote company sales. Through interesting commentary the spectator is able to get to know the famous bee farmer, and to hear his side of his amusing rise to fame.

Although I have known of Burt’s Bees all my life, I have to say it never occurred to me that the popular company could have a character as intriguing as Burt behind its foundation, nor did I think the man would have attained such a status of popularity, and that is why I was so compelled to receive the story of Burt’s Buzz in such a positive way. While some spectators might be put off by the premise of this documentary, one should not be afraid to be underwhelmed, as the story promises to provide riveting instances inside the world of a man who is completely unaware of the significance of his being as brand and symbol. It is amusing and intriguing to be able to witness a man who could easily make use of his influence and money in order to live a lifestyle completely different to the one he actually lives, and while Burt is not the most endearing man, he certainly has a certain something that makes him magnetic, not only to those who appear with him in the documentary, but to the spectator, who will eagerly await to hear his insight into the unforeseeable celebrity status he now holds.

As interesting as Burt himself is, the various commentary by close acquaintances, family members, and work associates make the experience all the more interesting, as they reveal Burt for what he himself does not realize he is, and as they unmask the true relationship of Burt to the creation of Burt’s Bees and to the co-founder Roxanne Quimby. Perhaps the film’s most compelling instances include seeing Burt outside of his comfort zone, as he travels to Taiwan only to be received by hoards of fans who are eager to get to know the man in person. Not only does the dynamic between Burt and his admirers shed some interesting light into the concept of celebrity, but the fact that an almost cultish interest for him has been fostered will also surely interest spectator.