Explore the unvarnished life of Charles Bukowski in Bukowski: Born Into This (2003)

Dive deep into the raw, unfiltered world of one of America’s most provocative literary voices. Directed by John Dullaghan, this acclaimed documentary chronicles Bukowski’s journey—from a troubled childhood in Germany and a monotonous stint at the U.S. Postal Service, to his emergence as a celebrated poet and novelist in Los Angeles .

Hear Bukowski’s own voice through candid readings and reflections, while iconic figures like Linda Lee Bukowski (his wife), Sean Penn, Bono, Tom Waits, and Harry Dean Stanton offer their intimate perspectives. The film captures the paradox of a man who wielded discipline in his writing amidst a life riddled with alcohol, chaos, and emotional scars.

With an 85% Rotten Tomatoes rating and a 77/100 score on Metacritic, it’s hailed as “thoroughly engrossing” and “powerful and beautiful.” Whether you’re a Bukowski fan or a newcomer, this documentary offers a compelling, no-holds-barred portrait of a literary anti hero.