Teenage Paparazzo

Most people know actor Adrian Grenier as Vincent Chase in hit HBO show Entourage, although the few who recognize him for his provocative role in Harvard Man or first documentary Shot in the Dark (about the actor seeking out his estranged father) know the star is far more talented than his HBO counterpart. In his sophomore directorial effort, Grenier decides to share the spotlight with 13-year-old Austin Visschedyk, Hollywood's youngest paparazzo. The Entourage star documents Austin's busy life as a top-earning paparazzo, attempting to understand why a child would be attracted to such a cutthroat industry, following Austin, interviewing fellow celebrities and even posing as a member of the universally despised "pap crew." Although the documentary may lead viewers to believe the charismatic Austin is the main focus, Grenier takes us on a disoriented, yet energetic, journey, questioning Austin's motives for becoming a member of the paparazzi, as well as how the excessive glamorization of fame and celebrities has affected today's society. Unlike many docs, Grenier showcases all points of view, from paparazzi to disgruntled celebrities, in revealing interviews. He also takes responsibility after his interactions with Austin take a turn for the worst, with the teenage paparazzo getting drunk off the fame Grenier provided him during the making of his documentary, which is quite rare to see. Teenage Paparazzo's hypothesis may be a tad unfocused, but the questions it raises about how society puts more importance on what's inside the purse of a reality star than knowing world news events is quite eye-opening, especially from such a surprisingly honest and genuine voice as Grenier's. The DVD also features deleted scenes with an annoyed, pre-rehab Lindsay Lohan and a Q&A with Grenier discussing the vast differences between American and Canadian media.