The Disappearance of Brandon Mull

Directed by Jason Conforto

The Disappearance of Brandon Mull is an ambitious documentary that poses a fascinating question: Can a New York Times best-selling author complete a novel in just one week? Director Jason Conforto captures Brandon Mull, the renowned fantasy author behind Fablehaven and Dragonwatch, as he embarks on this intense writing experiment. The film explores the challenges, creative pressures, and sheer determination involved in such a bold endeavor.

At its core, the documentary’s concept is immediately intriguing. Watching Mull grapple with time constraints and the creative process is enough to engage anyone interested in the writing world. The film’s slow-burn tension builds as the deadline approaches, making the audience root for Mull to succeed. While the premise alone could have carried the documentary, Conforto enriches the experience by showcasing the author’s personal struggles, making the film feel relatable to anyone who has faced creative pressure.

One of the standout aspects of The Disappearance of Brandon Mull is its production quality. The cinematography is well-executed, with beautifully composed shots that capture both the serene moments of reflection and the intensity of Mull’s race against time. B-roll footage of Mull typing, while mundane in theory, is made visually interesting through Conforto’s skillful direction and a dynamic sense of composition. The sound design and editing are also handled competently, contributing to the film’s overall polished feel, though some may find the pacing slow at times.

On the other hand, not all viewers will be captivated by the concept. One audience member felt the film failed to engage emotionally, despite its best efforts. The repetitive nature of watching someone type on a laptop, combined with interviews that don’t offer much beyond surface-level commentary, can feel monotonous. The self-imposed writing challenge, while dramatic in its way, may not provide enough excitement for all audiences. The constructed tension surrounding Mull’s deadline doesn’t always translate into a cinematic experience that grips the viewer.

Despite this critique, the film remains inspirational and fun for many, particularly those invested in the creative process. Mull’s lighthearted personality, paired with the film’s engaging interviews and well-chosen locations, adds warmth to the narrative. It’s easy to root for Mull, and his perseverance in completing his 20th novel feels like a triumph not just for him but for anyone watching.

In the end, The Disappearance of Brandon Mull feels like it could have benefited from a longer format. The concept is rich enough to explore in a documentary series, where the intricacies of the writing process and Mull’s personal journey could be delved into more deeply. As it stands, the short runtime feels like a snapshot of what could have been a more detailed and layered documentary.

The Disappearance of Brandon Mull is a well-made, compelling documentary that offers a unique window into the world of speed writing and creative challenges. While the slow pacing and limited depth may detract from its broader appeal, the film’s polished production and inspiring subject make it a rewarding watch for fans of Brandon Mull and anyone intrigued by the creative process.