I want to thank the THIS IS DAN BELL patreon community for their awesome support of Margie & Scott and it’s release. It’s been a long time coming. If you want Margie & Scott extras...go to www.Patreon.com/thisisdanbell Enjoy the movie!
Thank you for this intriguing documentary. I would be curious to know the details surrounding their deaths. I'm honestly surprised that Margie lived as long as she did considering how reckless she was with alligators!
Scott, talking about living on the past: "When the present sucks and your future looks like crap, where else do you go?" Profound, sad comment and how so many feel these days.
Been waiting a long time for this documentary. Incredibly well done. It perfectly portrays what millions of Americans are sadly doing day-to-day...existing. Simply existing. Not thriving. Not grinding. Not excelling. Just getting through until tomorrow so you can do it all over again. This is, in no way, an attempt to trivialize addiction. It is truly a sad and vicious struggle.
Dan, this is where you really shine as a documentary maker, just letting the camera roll as a passive bystander, not injecting too much narrative. Must have been a real slog to edit. Really enjoyed it.
I agree fully! I enjoy the deal mall stuff but this is a different level. ...more along the lines of Dan's "Brittany Girl Dale", which completely rocks.
This is fantastic. I lived in a residential motel for a few years, and it's a part of American life most people know little to nothing about. Sort of partially homeless or home-insecure. Not an easy life.
I know alot about that life. I lived in a motel in Ft. Myers for longer than what I would have liked. This brought back alot of those same anxieties and resignations I felt back then. There's alot of lost souls in Florida, and I was certainly one of them.
@@SuperRat420 exactly! I ended up in one because I was still living with my parents and their home went into foreclosure. After our lease was up at another place we couldn’t find anywhere to live in time. It was hell but definitely an experience
Knew a very interesting woman in MO, who had over 20-30 cats ... she lived in an en suite (2 adjoining units) at a rental for time of either weekly (or monthly rates). Her story is very tragic, she did end up moving out of one, and eventually found a house to live in, IDK if she ever had to give up a portion of her cats or not. Both parents of hers had passed by then, previously she was taking care of them. Anyone ending up in a motel like those is indeed experiencing a life-changing event.
Dan, what the heck are you doing "not" making documentaries? This is your calling in life. I do hope with the reactions you get for Margie and Scott that it will motivate you to make more. And thank you for giving Margie and Scott a face. They will forever be immortalized within your work. And you never know, maybe their story will help someone out there to change their life before it's too late.
Everytime I think I understand these two, they say or do something that makes me have to re-evaluate. I think what myself and other viewers weren't expecting is how much we can find to relate with Margie and Scott. So many of these types of documentaries exploit people struggling, on the outs, abusing substances, etc. turning their subjects into something "Less" than the viewer. Dan has managed to do the complete opposite, (seemingly without effort and casually) and actually humanize two people we might have looked right past or disregarded.
The best of what makes Dan Bell the best is on display in this documentary. His secret? To not bleed through into his own production. Dan Bell presents his content and subjects with the restraint and dispassion that a just portrayal commands. This work feels as much of a focused portrait as it does a less selective "slice of life" piece. As a viewer, I appreciated the natural pacing to the "storytelling" and characterizations. Dan takes care to not spoon-feed us, nor to coax his subjects into spoon-feeding him the content. This highly organic and humanizing film is one I've already been recommending. How to describe it? It's like an episode of Dead Malls where Dan walks through a life rather than a shopping complex.
This is a time capsule of authentic filmography. Just raw & real. This is Tragic story yet a reminder to never give up. RIP Margie & Scott. Thank you Dan Bell for this authentic art piece
This breaks my heart. I’m a recovering alcoholic and knew people who lost everything and ended up in halfway homes. They had dreams and hoped that they’d eventually have a healthy sober life. Our country disposes people after a certain age which kills our will to continue fighting. Thank you Dan for showing compassion and understanding how alcoholism steals everything, especially time.
Margie enjoyed helping people, and she said she wanted to work on her Masters? Meaning she was college educated. She was full of life even at her age. So sad how alcoholism stole her life & the world we live in cast her aside.
@@cuddlemoth Thank you for sharing more about her with us. I was thinking of her throughout the day and other people I’ve lost to this disease. So many beautiful talented people die from alcoholism.
This really hit me hard. My own father's life spiraled like Scott - diagnosed with cancer and divorced, his barely held together alcoholism degenerated quickly to the point where he died not of cancer, but acute intoxication. He too hung out with less than savory folks and would leave me violent, angry voicemails while in the midst of his drunken stupor. My heart hurts to know others suffer this way.
What a hauntingly beautiful film Dan! I had never heard of Scott or Margie but their stories will stick with me. Margie is such a quirky character, but so insightful. She was truly a light in this dark world.
this reminds me of how raw documentaries used to be, without the overdone editing and without the makeup and over used drone shots, this pure style has more feeling of what reality is.. Cheers Dan!
My heart honestly shattered at the end when you showed both of them had passed away. I was wanting so badly for the both of them to get back on their feet and get better! You could tell these were two wonderful people that just landed in difficult situations. You rarely meet someone like Margie and someone with as much passion as her. I’m glad they’re both at peace now, though. Thank you Dan for this wonderful documentary. It was perfect in every sense of the word and I can’t wait for more. You do amazing work and I hope to see you at the Mothman Festival this year! I’ve watched you since you first started on RUclips and I finally got to meet you at Mothman Festival a few years back. That was truly one of my favorite memories. ❤❤❤
So poignant. At first Margie and Scott seem like they are just living their best lives, almost like they are on a vacation, but it becomes apparent they are two lost souls together out of necessity. I hate that Scott went back to his harpy of a wife. The last scene of Margie speaking about her future plans and showing his empty made up bed was a bit of foreshadowing, as neither one of them would live to retirement age. Munchkin was so precious, I have a Chihuahua almost identical. Thanks Dan, and bless your Patreons for making this film a reality. RIP Margie, Scott and Munchkin💓🌈🕊️💐
NO FUCKIN WAY DAN, you did it! I'm glad you felt happy enough to share with us this project that you've worked so hard on specially with all the things going on just in the world and I'm sure in your life as well. I hope things are better for you, I can't wait to watch this on repeat for the next week ♡♡ Love your work!
Your encounter with the dashing Ian brought me here! Warmed my heart when Scott said he's "never met anyone like Margie" and then added "or you." Off camera, I know you would have been an absolute angel to these people. Following Saturday night's diarrhea tales, laughed out loud when Margie said she felt like Taco Bell & asked if you were hungry (to a resounding "no") haha. I hope she got to hear the story after that (if it had happened yet). Loved it Dan, despite how tragic it became when those dates of death came up at the end. It's going to stick with me for a while. I still often think about that Aileen Wuornos doco you made. Thanks and take care.
This was so good yet so heartbreaking to watch. My ex husband is an alcoholic, and I just kept seeing him in this. There it seemed like Margie was in better health, yet she died 2 yrs after filming. Scott outlived her by 3yrs. It's heartbreaking that they died, period. Addiction is a killer and destroyer of family and life. I wish our culture didn't celebrate alcohol like it does. They took cigarette ads away, why not all the alcohol ads? It's just constantly in the face of ppl who have problems with alcohol addiction. I'll hop off my soapbox and just send my praise to Dan for this masterful documentary. Just letting their lives play out with little commentary. Well done Dan!
As harmful as alcoholism is, the last time the government got involved, there was a huge spike in organized crime, gangsters equipped themselves with machine guns for shootouts with the police, and the alcohol didn't go away, it just got more dangerous. The fact is, anyone can make alcohol with yeast and grain mash, fruit juice, or plain sugar water. Distilling it into hard liquor for easier distribution is also easy. I wish the culture would change too, but if people aren't ready for the change, and see it as something imposed on them against their will, the results will be worse than continuing to allow it.
@@timewave02012 yeah, I didn't mean banning alcohol, just banning public advertising. It just seems like we celebrate drinking too much, and for some, it ruins their and others' lives
@@lyndiwilson2334 ~ I couldn't agree with you more 👏 "ESPECIALLY" since children, younger & younger it seems nowadays. Have easy access to and thus view the alcohol ads. Not just that, but also watching anything really: Movie's, TV Series, RUclips channels & Video games etc. Then, growing up also seeing alcohol glorified onscreen, as part of the College/University & Frat House scene. Participating in it too. I worked my dream career, as a Special Education Teacher Assistant. With student's ranging in ages from, Kindergarten up to High School. Was required to take child development courses. Where we learned all about how their brain 🧠 chemistry forms/develops. Basically, mimicking what's in their environment.
The sad thing is, there are millions of people out there just like this who are wonderful human beings with terrible addictions due to abuse in their past
Dan, that it hard. Throughout the documentary, I found myself developing an emotional connection with Margie and Scott. Despite (or maybe because of) their challenges, I was rooting for them so much. It made the fall at the end that much more heartbreaking. You filmed them in such a respectful manner; not interjecting your own voice but allowing them to tell their own story in their own unique way. In so doing, you humanized two people that I think society failed to value. Even though they are gone now, their story and memory have become a small part of each one of us that has been moved by watching your documentary. Thank you for that.
This is gonna be so many of us. Unhappy. Then we die and the story ends, if anyone was even paying attention. Thanks for making this, you're a genius at what you do, you can really make people feel something. Hope you yourself are well.
These days it’s most of the world. Even the richest happiest looking people are usually very unhappy and alone. People just dont care about people anymore
I'm just a casual subscriber so I didn't know anything about this project until it showed up in my feed, but I sat down and watched it immediately because I know everything you post is going to be good. I'm surprised at how well it held my attention, and the ending made me cry
The last part from 1:29:00 has to be the most tragic part of this entire documentation... I feel it so hard. The way she's holding onto this idea of the things she wants to do in some possible future, but apparently never committing. I see a lot of people that are stuck in this situation, stuck by life, stuck by how others have designed what life should be, all the while the way the world is organized, doesn't work well for a lot of people, leaving them out to straggle. I hope some time in the future life will be better for everyone.
You knocked it out of the park Dan Bell. This documentary is an outstanding body of work. You have found your career, now you just need to meet the right people, get your work recognized in the film industry, & you are on your way to being a famous producer. Ageism, sadly enough is real. I've never been much of a drinker, because suffering from major depression, it would be all too easy to climb into a bottle & never crawl out. Losing my life partner in late 2020 has made the struggle even tougher. My heart breaks for these 2 folks. Margie's expertise could have been utilized in so many areas. Scott was more of an introvert, but he was a very philosophical soul, just a deep-thinking quiet type.
when he pointed the camera at the photo and then up at scotts face - that was the most remarkable moment in the whole documentary for me. this scene makes me feel something i can‘t describe...
I dont remember the last time i cried this hard. Through this whole thing i just kept thinking " Damn, Margie is one HELL of a woman, i hope to meet her someday." But that wont happen in this lifetime. R.I.P. to both Margie and Scott. I truly hope both of them found some kind of peace before they passed.
I kind of get a Grey Gardens vibe from this. The way Dan just films them naturally with all of their eccentricities on display. It's fascinating to know that if you passed these people on the street you would never know their story, and it makes you wonder how many people are like this (or even worse). Hopefully this is the first of many more like this, bravo Dan! You the man!
RIP Margie and Scott so tragic. Margie was such a beautiful person inside and out. 😢🕊 Such an amazing documentary that is authentic and attention grabbing. Well done!
This film has lingered in my thoughts. Margie’s emotions and waning hope in the final scene in particular. Thank you, Dan, for capturing these moments of their lives.
This was one of the best documentaries I’ve ever seen. I was just talking last night about the type I love to watch, and the best films to me in this category are the real, raw kind where it just examines real life at its core. You should enter this into film festivals. It’s so good.
Marvellous and devastating on so many levels. For the most part, Dan fades into the background and lets Margie and Scott tell their own stories. He doesn't rely on voiceover narration or exposition. So, it really stood out for me that Dan included the part where he was trapped in his motel room. It's a little thing, but it draws a comparison to the debasement and humiliation those in the throes of addiction face. Somehow, the blame for the door debacle was placed on Dan, similar to how addicts' situations are often chalked up to assumptions of their moral failings. We tell addicts to "Get Help" but, so often, the "help" is completely ridiculous. Addiction is like bandages on gaping wounds that won't heal. Unresolved trauma; impossible circumstances. Life becomes overwhelmingly focused on managing the bandages. Simplistic "cures" to complicated problems (the wounds) don't cut it and we know it. In that sense, this documentary is a true horror film. Margie and Scott's plight could happen to ANY OF US. We've lost friends and family, if not our own selves. Yet, this is also a love story. Not a romance (contrary to Scott's wishes on some level), but a true love story. Why would Margie, who seemed so strong, saddle herself with a "lost cause" like Scott? What did Margie get out of it? Perhaps she appreciated having someone who truly understood her on a level that nobody else did. Margie and Scott seemed to have many "understandings." Maybe Scott was a really good listener. Although he seemed resigned to his fate, he said some poignant things. Paraphrased: "When the present sucks and the future looks nothing but worse, can you blame me for living in the past?" Or, "When I listen to [his wife's] voicemails, I get mad. When I listen to [Margie's] Mike, I get really sad." That last one gives us a hint that, while Margie seems to be the strong one, her wounds may be as deep as Scott's, if not deeper. For, while we lament that Scott ends up going back to his (seemingly) insufferable wife, in a way, he's "moving on." In theory, Margie was now free to "move on" herself but you could sense that she wasn't truly "sold" on the notion. Margie would move mountains for others but wasn't able to move herself. She was stuck and lost in the loneliest place.
She had a degree in environmental science and spent time working in the swamplands. Obviously this is not THAT, but it would seem she's trying to relive former days
Great job on the documentary, Dan. The last scene with Margie talking about the future is heartbreakingly sad in light of the info we're shown immediately afterward. When she said time was running out, although she seemed to been referring to her financial situation, I believe she knew and I think the audience knew what those words really meant. Despite all the great things she talked about doing, her tone of voice and the look in her eyes were both so devoid of hope and she just looked weary and beaten down by life.
When I saw Margie swimming with the gators, I had to pause video to Google, “lady named Margie eaten by an alligator”. When I found no article, I continued on to watch.
30 minutes to go. I’m curious how their situations end up. Always fascinating to see into the daily lives of random people going through life. Great documentary.
Well damn didn’t see that coming. Margie had such a positive outlook on life. Very captivating nonetheless. Thanks for capturing and sharing. I love how you focus on the subjects and not so much on what their doing, picking up on subtle nuances of their character.
I'll be honest I was really confused the whole time. Thinking "who are these people and how did Dan find them?!" Needless to say that was really interesting! Glad to see you still making videos Dan.
This is a great production. Give it a watch guys! It really gives you an inside look into the archive of two people fighting to make it in life and being overcome by addictions and codependency. RIP.
Brilliant documentary of the lives of two people on the outskirts of society. The camera work and editing was perfection. Absolutely riveting which it wouldn't ordinarily be without the keen eye of Dan Bell.
Margie was a beam of light, what a crack up poking the alligators and farting so funny. Dan Bell you are a tremendous film maker, you captured all the rawness and realness of these people that are clearly struggling but still fighting to get a head. I was hoping Margie was going to end the film living a better life etc.
Me too! I was rooting for them both. What did they die from? I’m surprised she died so young (when you are in your 50’s, 50’s is young) also Scott? I didn’t want it to end
@@liveandletlive8804 Toward the end while moving his own things, Scott seemed genuinely surprised at how fatigued he was. My first thought was, "guy smokes and drinks all day, he's 52, and almost certainly doesn't see a doctor - there's something seriously wrong." Kidneys, liver, lung, and heart pretty much all go with this lifestyle, it was just a matter of time.
Really enjoyed the intimate look into the lives of these two, especially Margie's. I found her obituary after watching this. She had so much promise - It is clear that she's an incredibly compassionate and smart woman. Somewhere along the way, she must have lost the confidence and motivation to do more with her life. It is noble to help others, but one must draw a line somewhere. It seems Margie had a hard time drawing that line. Rest in peace.
Very moving and interesting, I pray Margie got some stuff done from her bucket list before she passed and hope Scott got him self looked after. The pan in on Margie at the end was kinda moving it was like she is still very much here with us even though she passed. They where both amazing people and Scott was lucky to meet such a lovely friend. God bless them both and fab work Dan just like the trailer on Patreon I was glued to the sceen the whole way and not many films/programs do that. So proud you put this documentary out now I know how much work, time and tears I'm sure that was put into this.
Dan, I am astounded. As someone who is 3 years sober, I recognize Margie and Scott's story is only one drink away for all of us. As I was watching, I didn't realize this was shot years ago; perhaps the reason the end hit so hard. Margie and Scott are just so sweet in this film. The humanity that Margie held in her heart is worth learning from. She was helping others when she needed a life jacket as well. This doc was raw, unscripted and unpredictable. PLEASE, keep doing your craft. From what I have read, you hit hard times yourself with depression. I hope this kind of outlet helps with the dark places. Amazing work Dan.
I love this so much. As a Floridian I always love an intimate look into the lifestyles of my state’s more eccentric characters. This gives me Florida Project vibes in the best way. I appreciate your filmmaking so much! Please never stop! Also you getting stuck in the room was hilarious.
Omg I was wondering why this seemed so familiar(nostalgic?) and your exactly right, reminds me too of the Florida project!! I love the raw and real people shown- just letting them talk and live reminds me of another brilliant doc I’ve seen called Oxyanna! Dans a real master when it comes to filming, I’ll tell ya that
This was definitely triggering for me in some ways. It reminds me of my parents but also provides sort of a glimpse at what might have been had I not gotten sober. RIP to two beautiful, lost souls. No more pain.
Thanks for sharing a snapshot of these two with an ultimately sad ending when both were trying to get back on their feet. I'm not sure how close you were to them, but I totally sympathize the long wait on being able to put this together. Scott's comment on the past when the present and immediate future both look shitty was an incredibly harrowing accurate detail in 2014. It just kinda struck a chord with me as someone who likes to look back on the past, as well as someone who struggles on moving forward in life. Again, thank you for the video.
Wow, very sad ending but Dan, you are a genius at what you do. You most certainly have the Midas touch. At 28:06 when Dan ask's " Explain to me why we are out here ? " I laughed so hard I spewed my coffee all over my keyboard ! I have lived in Florida and NEVER felt the need nor urge to machete branches, snorkel or sit in the dark in alligator territory. Then she tries to poke the gator with a stick ???? I'm God smacked.
You managed to find and film something heartbreakingly honest . A return to the voyeuristic curiosity of the 1970s. It feels like everything and everyone in this is hanging on by a thread. I know how this ends .. you cross your fingers and always hope to be wrong. American tragedy … blood, sweat, sex and death. Amazing film
I enjoyed it but didn't get to really know the characters. There were no pictures of Marge from her past, didn't know she played on a golf team or had a college degree or if she had any aspirations until the last scene. This was sort of like the show Intervention without much of the backstory.
She has such a unique energy about her, reminds me of my best friends mom growing up, god I miss her and her mom wish they were still here. Thank You for reminding me.
Time is short. Make everyday count. Rest in peace Margie. Good to see you back doing what you do best Dan. Yeah the live streams are fun and wotnot but your documentaries are your special skill.
That last screen with the dates really crushed me. I guess it goes to show how cruel fate is. I used to be an alcoholic and the only good decision I ever made was to stop, and also to stop dating other alcoholics.
@@buukaczi I don't buy that bullshit they say you are always an alcoholic, but only a dry or sober one. I conquered it. No one can take that achievement from me. There is a lot of language around substance abuse that isn't helpful imo.
@ShroomyK Congratulations on your sobriety! I’m glad you didn’t listen to that person’s stupid, worthless comment. Baseless assumptions made without context aren’t even remotely reality and are unhelpful in the cause of those who do relapse. All it does is make people falsely believe that the world is only either black or white with no understanding of its complexity, and that we will never find the strength to overcome our situations. That’s neither realism nor pessimism, that’s defeatism. Tells us a lot more about the person making the comment than it ever will about you.
I wish there was a heart button because I absolutely loved this Dan!!! So sad and I know their struggle as I’m coming up on 11 years sober from heroin. It is such a huge issue that no one wants to talk about and these people just get written off. I am thankful for people like you who shine a spotlight on these subjects and bring a little humanity to us addicts and alcoholics! Keep up the great work!
Dan, this is a fantastic portrait of these two people at this point in their life without cheapening their lives or struggles. It's just laid bare for the viewer to enjoy. Listening to Margie talk about what she looks forward to and then seeing that she passed not too long after really broke my heart.
You’re an amazing filmmaker. The tone and beauty you can create is so honestly impressive. We need more artists like you. Please never stop creating, Dan! ❤️
I think this is the best documentary you ever made, in a world of Kardashians, influencers and fake people, see real people whiteout judging is a breeze of fresh air. It's definitely my favorite Good work Dan 👍🏻
Amazing documentary Dan just finished watching it , i think i shows a sad but honest reality in America now of how many people have fallen deep into Addictions they sadly never come back from ... i wonder if it was because of making this documentary that made you wanna get sober Dan..
What happened to Margie? She seemed like she could look after herself… sad to know they are both gone (not surprised about him tho). Anyway, this was an interesting watch. Glad you’re back, Dan.
@@666cemetaryslut you may have a point, but then again she got out of there alive. For what I’ve seen her alcoholism wasn’t as bad as his and she sure had surviving skills. I don’t know, maybe off camera her situation was even more tragic but I wasn’t expecting her to be dead two years after this, in her 50s.
When Scott says he’s 52, and blames his health problems on that…oof. There was definitely something more going on, probably alcohol related but I don’t know that. They both seemed so nice and Margie had such a big heart.
***SPOILER WARNING*** What an amazing and intriguing film, Dan. Within the first few minutes, it drew me in. I enjoyed getting to know the two of them and hoped for the best, and that they both got on the wagon and beat back this horrible vicious monster known as alcoholism. Seeing their names at the end, with their birth and death dates caught me off guard and definitely made me incredibly sad. Granted, they didn't lead healthy and clean lifestyles, but I can honestly say I didn't expect to see that. For both of them. Even though it is nice to know that they're both no longer in pain. Anyway, thank you for sharing this with everyone! What an awesome film. I've missed seeing your videos.
Listening to those voicemails made me feel incredibly dirty. As a person with a friend that age struggling with depression and alcoholism, it reminds me of some of the things I've heard in conversation in the past. It's like an endless, vicious cycle.
The very first film of yours I ever saw was, coincidentally, at a motel in Florida and was the one about Eileen Wuornos. I was immediately drawn in by your seemingly effortless style. We all know how hard you work at your craft and it shows. This haunting film is another interesting and compelling one at another motel in Florida, this time about a couple of people that somehow each got a bit derailed in life. The very end tugged at all our heartstrings. What a heartfelt film, Dan. Thank you for sharing your talent and a bit of their stories with us.
I came back to say something else b/c this film has been on my mind for days. In the town I grew up in (A beachside town on the East Coast of FL) there was a rundown long term stay motel near the train tracks for as long as I can remember. Mostly homeless or home insecure folks stayed there of course. It was always sad to drive by b/c they had a playground and lots of bikes and toys outside so you could tell there were kids there often. It was so run down and creepy. A little while ago it closed. I wondered where the folks living there would go. It was all redone and I figured it would probably open up as a more standard motel or be sold for doctors office space b/c its near the medical center in town. Then a sign went up stating the new name and its tagline “saving men’s lives”. It was purchased and redone to stay a long term stay motel but with a program attached for therapy, life skills training, employment matching and support group meetings. Its now men only Idk why, no more children allowed but the program seems great. Men can stay there for a very low rent fee as long as they join the program and attend the therapy and meetings. The goal is to have them employed and able to move out within 6 months to a year. I looked it up and it seems like there are lots of success stories. From what I heard a few very wealthy folks in town got together, bought it and started a nonprofit to go along with it. They do fundraisers and galas with the beachside rich people in town to fund it. I think its great someone saw a place like where Scott and Margie lived and decided to do something to actually help people like them move on from the rut they are in.
Hello Dan, meanwhile I check out your channels and videos daily and I'm totally addicted to your great and unique work. This documentary is also somehow impressive because it brings the stories of two strangers really close to the audience and I hope that you can do more stuff like that. I'm totally impressed by everything you do and I wish you all the best. Best wishes from Germany 😊
My father in law passed from alcoholism. Over the years of drinking, it eroded his esophagus and he essentially vomited his esophagus up and it killed him. There were signs months prior like not eating and if he did eat it came back up. Sadly it was preventable but he refused to see a doctor.
Brilliant Dan!, Margie was an amazing strong woman and sad that she had tough times that squished her ambition, she could have gone places! Real eye opener, the further you fall, the harder it is to climb back up.
Hi Shailee, very true about Margie. I can personally relate to how that feels. Sometimes you try so hard, but nothing seems to work out. These difficult times make it nearly impossible or it definitely feels that way.
Dan, this made me feel like I haven't felt in a while. To the last second of this. I'm fucking crying and I don't know if it's because I'm happy or sad. Thank you for this.
This was absolutely beautifully done. I truly hope both of them have found peace on the other side. Margie's love for animals touched me so much, and poor Scott was just so sad. I just wish I could hug them both. Thank you for sharing this amazing work with us.
OMG that alligator scene 🙈 Really drives home how uninhibited we become when alcohol is driving us. Heartbreaking end, but this documentary was a beautiful display of reality and humanity. Margie was so cool, I would have loved to hang out with her.
A fool I am for not having notifications on ToT Glad to see you make this wow!! aww gosh, 50 mins in and I feel for Margie and Scott both, the people in their lives are so controlling and rude to them...berating them for issues when they could just walk away. I'm glad the two can relate on how narcissistic their spouses are to bond and regain some autonomy in their lives, rest in peace.
just finnished absolutely great work, very touching for me. im quite a bit younger but ive been exactly where margie and scott were in this film. may they rest in peace
I want to thank the THIS IS DAN BELL patreon community for their awesome support of Margie & Scott and it’s release. It’s been a long time coming. If you want Margie & Scott extras...go to www.Patreon.com/thisisdanbell Enjoy the movie!
Love you Dan!!!
Wonderful documentary!! Just finished it, it's so well done! The ending breaks my heart!
Thank you for this intriguing documentary. I would be curious to know the details surrounding their deaths. I'm honestly surprised that Margie lived as long as she did considering how reckless she was with alligators!
THIS WAS INCREDIABLE THANK YOU FOR SHARING THEIR STORY please do more like this.
I would let you docu me...I got one hell of a long story....;p;
Scott, talking about living on the past: "When the present sucks and your future looks like crap, where else do you go?" Profound, sad comment and how so many feel these days.
It's OK to visit the past but Don't live there 🐥
It's the motto of a generation, maybe two. It's a sad place to be
@@JKSSubstandard Well said!
Yup that was painful
Jesus is the way to Go, there is peace and hope. God bless
Been waiting a long time for this documentary. Incredibly well done. It perfectly portrays what millions of Americans are sadly doing day-to-day...existing. Simply existing. Not thriving. Not grinding. Not excelling. Just getting through until tomorrow so you can do it all over again. This is, in no way, an attempt to trivialize addiction. It is truly a sad and vicious struggle.
Dan, this is where you really shine as a documentary maker, just letting the camera roll as a passive bystander, not injecting too much narrative. Must have been a real slog to edit. Really enjoyed it.
I love the dead mall series and Dan's voice is so calming. This was different and really entertaining as well.
Very well said. Thank you, 1W5!
You can always tell Dan has a great sense of style. I cant explain it but its there.
I agree fully! I enjoy the deal mall stuff but this is a different level. ...more along the lines of Dan's "Brittany Girl Dale", which completely rocks.
@@styertowneblog111 I was wondering how I found Dan, and you just reminded me. Brittany Girl Dale is sort of a local insane person here in Baltimore.
This is fantastic. I lived in a residential motel for a few years, and it's a part of American life most people know little to nothing about. Sort of partially homeless or home-insecure. Not an easy life.
I know alot about that life. I lived in a motel in Ft. Myers for longer than what I would have liked. This brought back alot of those same anxieties and resignations I felt back then. There's alot of lost souls in Florida, and I was certainly one of them.
And it's expensive as HELL, more expensive that renting at the end, way more money than home owneership for sure
Same here I lived in one for about two years. So many different people. Broke my heart to see children in there too with their families
@@SuperRat420 exactly! I ended up in one because I was still living with my parents and their home went into foreclosure. After our lease was up at another place we couldn’t find anywhere to live in time. It was hell but definitely an experience
Knew a very interesting woman in MO, who had over 20-30 cats ... she lived in an en suite (2 adjoining units) at a rental for time of either weekly (or monthly rates). Her story is very tragic, she did end up moving out of one, and eventually found a house to live in, IDK if she ever had to give up a portion of her cats or not. Both parents of hers had passed by then, previously she was taking care of them. Anyone ending up in a motel like those is indeed experiencing a life-changing event.
Dan, that ending left me gutted. Thank you for your documentary style. You are preserving what most would rather have be forgotten.
Left me empty feeling inside after watching .. such a fleeting moment in time... were all precious and im glad this was documented.
Me too…..
Dan, what the heck are you doing "not" making documentaries? This is your calling in life. I do hope with the reactions you get for Margie and Scott that it will motivate you to make more. And thank you for giving Margie and Scott a face. They will forever be immortalized within your work. And you never know, maybe their story will help someone out there to change their life before it's too late.
Agree, he's great at this
Everytime I think I understand these two, they say or do something that makes me have to re-evaluate. I think what myself and other viewers weren't expecting is how much we can find to relate with Margie and Scott. So many of these types of documentaries exploit people struggling, on the outs, abusing substances, etc. turning their subjects into something "Less" than the viewer. Dan has managed to do the complete opposite, (seemingly without effort and casually) and actually humanize two people we might have looked right past or disregarded.
The best of what makes Dan Bell the best is on display in this documentary. His secret? To not bleed through into his own production. Dan Bell presents his content and subjects with the restraint and dispassion that a just portrayal commands.
This work feels as much of a focused portrait as it does a less selective "slice of life" piece. As a viewer, I appreciated the natural pacing to the "storytelling" and characterizations. Dan takes care to not spoon-feed us, nor to coax his subjects into spoon-feeding him the content.
This highly organic and humanizing film is one I've already been recommending. How to describe it? It's like an episode of Dead Malls where Dan walks through a life rather than a shopping complex.
This is a time capsule of authentic filmography. Just raw & real. This is Tragic story yet a reminder to never give up. RIP Margie & Scott. Thank you Dan Bell for this authentic art piece
This breaks my heart. I’m a recovering alcoholic and knew people who lost everything and ended up in halfway homes.
They had dreams and hoped that they’d eventually have a healthy sober life.
Our country disposes people after a certain age which kills our will to continue fighting.
Thank you Dan for showing compassion and understanding how alcoholism steals everything, especially time.
What age would you say that is? I think it's past 40.
As in 50 plus. Is what I meant.
Margie enjoyed helping people, and she said she wanted to work on her Masters? Meaning she was college educated. She was full of life even at her age. So sad how alcoholism stole her life & the world we live in cast her aside.
@@cuddlemoth Thank you for sharing more about her with us. I was thinking of her throughout the day and other people I’ve lost to this disease. So many beautiful talented people die from alcoholism.
So well said aimee
This really hit me hard. My own father's life spiraled like Scott - diagnosed with cancer and divorced, his barely held together alcoholism degenerated quickly to the point where he died not of cancer, but acute intoxication. He too hung out with less than savory folks and would leave me violent, angry voicemails while in the midst of his drunken stupor. My heart hurts to know others suffer this way.
I'm incredibly sorry for your loss 🫂 🕯R.I.P. to your Father
What a hauntingly beautiful film Dan! I had never heard of Scott or Margie but their stories will stick with me. Margie is such a quirky character, but so insightful. She was truly a light in this dark world.
Well said...
this reminds me of how raw documentaries used to be, without the overdone editing and without the makeup and over used drone shots, this pure style has more feeling of what reality is.. Cheers Dan!
And propaganda as well
yep very reminiscent of the old hbo documentaries where they just let the camera roll.
You know you’re dealing with a true functioning alcoholic when you drink that much and still sound 100% sober. I know because I am one too.
Do you not want help or were you being sarcastic ?
My heart honestly shattered at the end when you showed both of them had passed away. I was wanting so badly for the both of them to get back on their feet and get better! You could tell these were two wonderful people that just landed in difficult situations. You rarely meet someone like Margie and someone with as much passion as her. I’m glad they’re both at peace now, though. Thank you Dan for this wonderful documentary. It was perfect in every sense of the word and I can’t wait for more. You do amazing work and I hope to see you at the Mothman Festival this year! I’ve watched you since you first started on RUclips and I finally got to meet you at Mothman Festival a few years back. That was truly one of my favorite memories. ❤❤❤
I just watched this and Im super sad now. I had such high hopes for them...especially her. I really thought she would go onto bigger things.
So poignant. At first Margie and Scott seem like they are just living their best lives, almost like they are on a vacation, but it becomes apparent they are two lost souls together out of necessity. I hate that Scott went back to his harpy of a wife. The last scene of Margie speaking about her future plans and showing his empty made up bed was a bit of foreshadowing, as neither one of them would live to retirement age. Munchkin was so precious, I have a Chihuahua almost identical. Thanks Dan, and bless your Patreons for making this film a reality. RIP Margie, Scott and Munchkin💓🌈🕊️💐
NO FUCKIN WAY DAN, you did it!
I'm glad you felt happy enough to share with us this project that you've worked so hard on specially with all the things going on just in the world and I'm sure in your life as well.
I hope things are better for you, I can't wait to watch this on repeat for the next week ♡♡
Love your work!
Your encounter with the dashing Ian brought me here!
Warmed my heart when Scott said he's "never met anyone like Margie" and then added "or you." Off camera, I know you would have been an absolute angel to these people. Following Saturday night's diarrhea tales, laughed out loud when Margie said she felt like Taco Bell & asked if you were hungry (to a resounding "no") haha. I hope she got to hear the story after that (if it had happened yet).
Loved it Dan, despite how tragic it became when those dates of death came up at the end. It's going to stick with me for a while. I still often think about that Aileen Wuornos doco you made. Thanks and take care.
This was so good yet so heartbreaking to watch. My ex husband is an alcoholic, and I just kept seeing him in this. There it seemed like Margie was in better health, yet she died 2 yrs after filming. Scott outlived her by 3yrs. It's heartbreaking that they died, period. Addiction is a killer and destroyer of family and life. I wish our culture didn't celebrate alcohol like it does. They took cigarette ads away, why not all the alcohol ads? It's just constantly in the face of ppl who have problems with alcohol addiction.
I'll hop off my soapbox and just send my praise to Dan for this masterful documentary. Just letting their lives play out with little commentary. Well done Dan!
Dan, thanks for this, brother. Interested to hear an update on your spooky apartment
As harmful as alcoholism is, the last time the government got involved, there was a huge spike in organized crime, gangsters equipped themselves with machine guns for shootouts with the police, and the alcohol didn't go away, it just got more dangerous. The fact is, anyone can make alcohol with yeast and grain mash, fruit juice, or plain sugar water. Distilling it into hard liquor for easier distribution is also easy. I wish the culture would change too, but if people aren't ready for the change, and see it as something imposed on them against their will, the results will be worse than continuing to allow it.
@@timewave02012 yeah, I didn't mean banning alcohol, just banning public advertising. It just seems like we celebrate drinking too much, and for some, it ruins their and others' lives
Its not the ads it's the availability. Alcoholics don't need a reminder to take a drink. It's always there.
@@lyndiwilson2334 ~ I couldn't agree with you more 👏 "ESPECIALLY" since children, younger & younger it seems nowadays. Have easy access to and thus view the alcohol ads. Not just that, but also watching anything really: Movie's, TV Series, RUclips channels & Video games etc. Then, growing up also seeing alcohol glorified onscreen, as part of the College/University & Frat House scene. Participating in it too. I worked my dream career, as a Special Education Teacher Assistant. With student's ranging in ages from, Kindergarten up to High School. Was required to take child development courses. Where we learned all about how their brain 🧠 chemistry forms/develops. Basically, mimicking what's in their environment.
The sad thing is, there are millions of people out there just like this who are wonderful human beings with terrible addictions due to abuse in their past
Dan, that it hard. Throughout the documentary, I found myself developing an emotional connection with Margie and Scott. Despite (or maybe because of) their challenges, I was rooting for them so much. It made the fall at the end that much more heartbreaking.
You filmed them in such a respectful manner; not interjecting your own voice but allowing them to tell their own story in their own unique way. In so doing, you humanized two people that I think society failed to value. Even though they are gone now, their story and memory have become a small part of each one of us that has been moved by watching your documentary. Thank you for that.
Wow. This had me feeling so melancholy. RIP Margie & Scott. Best wishes to anyone out there struggling with addiction.
Margie is here to save the environment. At midnight. With her machete.
But seriously, this was captivating. Thanks, Dan.
She is lucky that gator didn't eat her alive
🤣🤣🤣🤣
While antagonizing alligators.
lmao
thanks for the input chet
This is gonna be so many of us. Unhappy. Then we die and the story ends, if anyone was even paying attention. Thanks for making this, you're a genius at what you do, you can really make people feel something. Hope you yourself are well.
Shit bro
These days it’s most of the world. Even the richest happiest looking people are usually very unhappy and alone. People just dont care about people anymore
I'm just a casual subscriber so I didn't know anything about this project until it showed up in my feed, but I sat down and watched it immediately because I know everything you post is going to be good. I'm surprised at how well it held my attention, and the ending made me cry
Awww I feel you it was sad.😭
Dan, as a recovering alcoholic who's been luckily spared from the worst of the worst, this is a reminder I can use everyday. This film is powerful.
The last part from 1:29:00 has to be the most tragic part of this entire documentation... I feel it so hard. The way she's holding onto this idea of the things she wants to do in some possible future, but apparently never committing. I see a lot of people that are stuck in this situation, stuck by life, stuck by how others have designed what life should be, all the while the way the world is organized, doesn't work well for a lot of people, leaving them out to straggle.
I hope some time in the future life will be better for everyone.
You knocked it out of the park Dan Bell. This documentary is an outstanding body of work. You have found your career, now you just need to meet the right people, get your work recognized in the film industry, & you are on your way to being a famous producer.
Ageism, sadly enough is real. I've never been much of a drinker, because suffering from major depression, it would be all too easy to climb into a bottle & never crawl out. Losing my life partner in late 2020 has made the struggle even tougher.
My heart breaks for these 2 folks. Margie's expertise could have been utilized in so many areas. Scott was more of an introvert, but he was a very philosophical soul, just a deep-thinking quiet type.
That photo of a young Scott gave me chills. Just makes me wonder what happened between that photo and present time that lead him down this road.
Depression is all it takes. Add addiction and his situation was actually _better_ than many. Not that it was good. RIP, Scott.
when he pointed the camera at the photo and then up at scotts face - that was the most remarkable moment in the whole documentary for me. this scene makes me feel something i can‘t describe...
I dont remember the last time i cried this hard. Through this whole thing i just kept thinking " Damn, Margie is one HELL of a woman, i hope to meet her someday." But that wont happen in this lifetime. R.I.P. to both Margie and Scott. I truly hope both of them found some kind of peace before they passed.
I kind of get a Grey Gardens vibe from this. The way Dan just films them naturally with all of their eccentricities on display. It's fascinating to know that if you passed these people on the street you would never know their story, and it makes you wonder how many people are like this (or even worse).
Hopefully this is the first of many more like this, bravo Dan! You the man!
RIP Margie and Scott so tragic. Margie was such a beautiful person inside and out. 😢🕊
Such an amazing documentary that is authentic and attention grabbing. Well done!
How did they doe ? What happened?
What are the circumstances of their deaths and where? Really very sad and tragic. I'm sorry
This film has lingered in my thoughts. Margie’s emotions and waning hope in the final scene in particular. Thank you, Dan, for capturing these moments of their lives.
This was beautiful and sad. You did an amazing job. Thank you, Dan.
This was one of the best documentaries I’ve ever seen. I was just talking last night about the type I love to watch, and the best films to me in this category are the real, raw kind where it just examines real life at its core. You should enter this into film festivals. It’s so good.
Marvellous and devastating on so many levels.
For the most part, Dan fades into the background and lets Margie and Scott tell their own stories. He doesn't rely on voiceover narration or exposition. So, it really stood out for me that Dan included the part where he was trapped in his motel room.
It's a little thing, but it draws a comparison to the debasement and humiliation those in the throes of addiction face.
Somehow, the blame for the door debacle was placed on Dan, similar to how addicts' situations are often chalked up to assumptions of their moral failings. We tell addicts to "Get Help" but, so often, the "help" is completely ridiculous.
Addiction is like bandages on gaping wounds that won't heal. Unresolved trauma; impossible circumstances. Life becomes overwhelmingly focused on managing the bandages. Simplistic "cures" to complicated problems (the wounds) don't cut it and we know it.
In that sense, this documentary is a true horror film. Margie and Scott's plight could happen to ANY OF US. We've lost friends and family, if not our own selves. Yet, this is also a love story. Not a romance (contrary to Scott's wishes on some level), but a true love story.
Why would Margie, who seemed so strong, saddle herself with a "lost cause" like Scott? What did Margie get out of it? Perhaps she appreciated having someone who truly understood her on a level that nobody else did. Margie and Scott seemed to have many "understandings."
Maybe Scott was a really good listener. Although he seemed resigned to his fate, he said some poignant things.
Paraphrased: "When the present sucks and the future looks nothing but worse, can you blame me for living in the past?"
Or, "When I listen to [his wife's] voicemails, I get mad. When I listen to [Margie's] Mike, I get really sad."
That last one gives us a hint that, while Margie seems to be the strong one, her wounds may be as deep as Scott's, if not deeper.
For, while we lament that Scott ends up going back to his (seemingly) insufferable wife, in a way, he's "moving on."
In theory, Margie was now free to "move on" herself but you could sense that she wasn't truly "sold" on the notion. Margie would move mountains for others but wasn't able to move herself. She was stuck and lost in the loneliest place.
this reads like an exellent imdb review! thanks
Loved when Dan was trapped. Classic moment. Also why was Margie always in the swamps poking gators? I missed the reasoning for that.
Sometimes you gotta
She had a degree in environmental science and spent time working in the swamplands. Obviously this is not THAT, but it would seem she's trying to relive former days
Great job on the documentary, Dan. The last scene with Margie talking about the future is heartbreakingly sad in light of the info we're shown immediately afterward. When she said time was running out, although she seemed to been referring to her financial situation, I believe she knew and I think the audience knew what those words really meant. Despite all the great things she talked about doing, her tone of voice and the look in her eyes were both so devoid of hope and she just looked weary and beaten down by life.
I have lived this life, This is what the American dream is for many of us. A hell that we must make the best of, End stage Capitalism at it's finest.
When I saw Margie swimming with the gators, I had to pause video to Google, “lady named Margie eaten by an alligator”. When I found no article, I continued on to watch.
30 minutes to go. I’m curious how their situations end up. Always fascinating to see into the daily lives of random people going through life. Great documentary.
Well damn didn’t see that coming. Margie had such a positive outlook on life. Very captivating nonetheless. Thanks for capturing and sharing. I love how you focus on the subjects and not so much on what their doing, picking up on subtle nuances of their character.
I'll be honest I was really confused the whole time. Thinking "who are these people and how did Dan find them?!" Needless to say that was really interesting! Glad to see you still making videos Dan.
**forgets August**
“I haven’t crunched the numbers”
**continues to forget August**
Holy shit, flashbacks to my fucked up childhood. This is superb work, Dan! Nobody would think to make this, but you did. Keep up the fantastic work!
This is a great production. Give it a watch guys! It really gives you an inside look into the archive of two people fighting to make it in life and being overcome by addictions and codependency. RIP.
Brilliant documentary of the lives of two people on the outskirts of society. The camera work and editing was perfection. Absolutely riveting which it wouldn't ordinarily be without the keen eye of Dan Bell.
Drunk Margie is something. Staggering around, poking gators.
Margie was a beam of light, what a crack up poking the alligators and farting so funny. Dan Bell you are a tremendous film maker, you captured all the rawness and realness of these people that are clearly struggling but still fighting to get a head. I was hoping Margie was going to end the film living a better life etc.
Me too! I was rooting for them both. What did they die from? I’m surprised she died so young (when you are in your 50’s, 50’s is young) also Scott? I didn’t want it to end
@@liveandletlive8804 they die because they where both alcohilics
@@liveandletlive8804 Toward the end while moving his own things, Scott seemed genuinely surprised at how fatigued he was. My first thought was, "guy smokes and drinks all day, he's 52, and almost certainly doesn't see a doctor - there's something seriously wrong." Kidneys, liver, lung, and heart pretty much all go with this lifestyle, it was just a matter of time.
@@wellyup7879 so true
@Animal Mother
Literally every single comment on this documentary is a spoiler.
Really enjoyed the intimate look into the lives of these two, especially Margie's. I found her obituary after watching this. She had so much promise - It is clear that she's an incredibly compassionate and smart woman. Somewhere along the way, she must have lost the confidence and motivation to do more with her life. It is noble to help others, but one must draw a line somewhere. It seems Margie had a hard time drawing that line. Rest in peace.
Very moving and interesting, I pray Margie got some stuff done from her bucket list before she passed and hope Scott got him self looked after. The pan in on Margie at the end was kinda moving it was like she is still very much here with us even though she passed. They where both amazing people and Scott was lucky to meet such a lovely friend. God bless them both and fab work Dan just like the trailer on Patreon I was glued to the sceen the whole way and not many films/programs do that. So proud you put this documentary out now I know how much work, time and tears I'm sure that was put into this.
Dan, I am astounded. As someone who is 3 years sober, I recognize Margie and Scott's story is only one drink away for all of us. As I was watching, I didn't realize this was shot years ago; perhaps the reason the end hit so hard. Margie and Scott are just so sweet in this film. The humanity that Margie held in her heart is worth learning from. She was helping others when she needed a life jacket as well.
This doc was raw, unscripted and unpredictable. PLEASE, keep doing your craft. From what I have read, you hit hard times yourself with depression. I hope this kind of outlet helps with the dark places. Amazing work Dan.
I just finished watching and felt the same when I found out they both had passed.
I love this so much. As a Floridian I always love an intimate look into the lifestyles of my state’s more eccentric characters. This gives me Florida Project vibes in the best way. I appreciate your filmmaking so much! Please never stop! Also you getting stuck in the room was hilarious.
Omg I was wondering why this seemed so familiar(nostalgic?) and your exactly right, reminds me too of the Florida project!! I love the raw and real people shown- just letting them talk and live reminds me of another brilliant doc I’ve seen called Oxyanna! Dans a real master when it comes to filming, I’ll tell ya that
This was definitely triggering for me in some ways. It reminds me of my parents but also provides sort of a glimpse at what might have been had I not gotten sober. RIP to two beautiful, lost souls. No more pain.
Thanks for sharing a snapshot of these two with an ultimately sad ending when both were trying to get back on their feet. I'm not sure how close you were to them, but I totally sympathize the long wait on being able to put this together. Scott's comment on the past when the present and immediate future both look shitty was an incredibly harrowing accurate detail in 2014. It just kinda struck a chord with me as someone who likes to look back on the past, as well as someone who struggles on moving forward in life. Again, thank you for the video.
Wow, very sad ending but Dan, you are a genius at what you do. You most certainly have the Midas touch. At 28:06 when Dan ask's " Explain to me why we are out here ? " I laughed so hard I spewed my coffee all over my keyboard ! I have lived in Florida and NEVER felt the need nor urge to machete branches, snorkel or sit in the dark in alligator territory. Then she tries to poke the gator with a stick ???? I'm God smacked.
1:21:46 In this part I burst into tears. Seeing him so young and perhaps full of dreams and hope was heartbreaking.
You managed to find and film something heartbreakingly honest . A return to the voyeuristic curiosity of the 1970s. It feels like everything and everyone in this is hanging on by a thread.
I know how this ends .. you cross your fingers and always hope to be wrong.
American tragedy … blood, sweat, sex and death. Amazing film
I enjoyed it but didn't get to really know the characters. There were no pictures of Marge from her past, didn't know she played on a golf team or had a college degree or if she had any aspirations until the last scene. This was sort of like the show Intervention without much of the backstory.
Let’s be honest here, Munchkin is the real star.
She has such a unique energy about her, reminds me of my best friends mom growing up, god I miss her and her mom wish they were still here. Thank You for reminding me.
Time is short. Make everyday count. Rest in peace Margie.
Good to see you back doing what you do best Dan. Yeah the live streams are fun and wotnot but your documentaries are your special skill.
Spoiler alert...
FYI, almost all of the comments are spoilers. Don’t read them before you’re done watching the documentary.
I...need to quit drinking.
That last screen with the dates really crushed me. I guess it goes to show how cruel fate is. I used to be an alcoholic and the only good decision I ever made was to stop, and also to stop dating other alcoholics.
Lol'd at "used to be". You still are my dude.
@@buukaczi I don't buy that bullshit they say you are always an alcoholic, but only a dry or sober one. I conquered it. No one can take that achievement from me. There is a lot of language around substance abuse that isn't helpful imo.
@ShroomyK
Congratulations on your sobriety! I’m glad you didn’t listen to that person’s stupid, worthless comment. Baseless assumptions made without context aren’t even remotely reality and are unhelpful in the cause of those who do relapse. All it does is make people falsely believe that the world is only either black or white with no understanding of its complexity, and that we will never find the strength to overcome our situations. That’s neither realism nor pessimism, that’s defeatism. Tells us a lot more about the person making the comment than it ever will about you.
This motel reminds me of the one aileen wuornos was living in
The ending hits you like a ton of freaking bricks.
Dan Bell is such a fucking G. He shows to us everything that is forgotten and abandoned and still beautiful. Thank you, Dan.
Wow, you summed that up so beautifully.
@@sherryviera5696 Thank you.
I wish there was a heart button because I absolutely loved this Dan!!! So sad and I know their struggle as I’m coming up on 11 years sober from heroin. It is such a huge issue that no one wants to talk about and these people just get written off. I am thankful for people like you who shine a spotlight on these subjects and bring a little humanity to us addicts and alcoholics! Keep up the great work!
Dude you are a master of ambient background sound segues
This is some next level shit
Dan, this is a fantastic portrait of these two people at this point in their life without cheapening their lives or struggles. It's just laid bare for the viewer to enjoy. Listening to Margie talk about what she looks forward to and then seeing that she passed not too long after really broke my heart.
You’re an amazing filmmaker. The tone and beauty you can create is so honestly impressive. We need more artists like you. Please never stop creating, Dan! ❤️
How did they die? Was it drugs, car accident, gator? I must know! Thank you for the film, I enjoyed it.
I think this is the best documentary you ever made, in a world of Kardashians, influencers and fake people, see real people whiteout judging is a breeze of fresh air.
It's definitely my favorite
Good work Dan 👍🏻
Amazing documentary Dan just finished watching it , i think i shows a sad but honest reality in America now of how many people have fallen deep into Addictions they sadly never come back from ... i wonder if it was because of making this documentary that made you wanna get sober Dan..
What happened to Margie? She seemed like she could look after herself… sad to know they are both gone (not surprised about him tho). Anyway, this was an interesting watch. Glad you’re back, Dan.
She passed a few years back.
She was drunk in a swamp poking Alligators with a stick. I wouldn't exactly call that looking after herself...
@@666cemetaryslut you may have a point, but then again she got out of there alive. For what I’ve seen her alcoholism wasn’t as bad as his and she sure had surviving skills. I don’t know, maybe off camera her situation was even more tragic but I wasn’t expecting her to be dead two years after this, in her 50s.
I’ve been waiting for this for a long time Dan and it well worth it. This is a eye opening experience to watch your Documentary 🙏🏻
When Scott says he’s 52, and blames his health problems on that…oof. There was definitely something more going on, probably alcohol related but I don’t know that. They both seemed so nice and Margie had such a big heart.
Who instantly came to the comments to say "wish they met each other 30 years ago?"
Lord have mercy, you don't put milk in a hollandaise sauce!
***SPOILER WARNING***
What an amazing and intriguing film, Dan. Within the first few minutes, it drew me in. I enjoyed getting to know the two of them and hoped for the best, and that they both got on the wagon and beat back this horrible vicious monster known as alcoholism. Seeing their names at the end, with their birth and death dates caught me off guard and definitely made me incredibly sad. Granted, they didn't lead healthy and clean lifestyles, but I can honestly say I didn't expect to see that. For both of them. Even though it is nice to know that they're both no longer in pain.
Anyway, thank you for sharing this with everyone! What an awesome film. I've missed seeing your videos.
1:04:02 for real 😔
Breaks your heart. 😔💔
Listening to those voicemails made me feel incredibly dirty. As a person with a friend that age struggling with depression and alcoholism, it reminds me of some of the things I've heard in conversation in the past. It's like an endless, vicious cycle.
reminds me of my mom when her boyfriends would leave psycho messages on her phone at like 2 am .. At least she never showed them her house
Great video, Dan! But ugh, those drawn out voicemail messages gave me anxiety. My ex would leave those on my phone and they went on and on.
Dan Bell is dead
The very first film of yours I ever saw was, coincidentally, at a motel in Florida and was the one about Eileen Wuornos. I was immediately drawn in by your seemingly effortless style. We all know how hard you work at your craft and it shows. This haunting film is another interesting and compelling one at another motel in Florida, this time about a couple of people that somehow each got a bit derailed in life. The very end tugged at all our heartstrings. What a heartfelt film, Dan. Thank you for sharing your talent and a bit of their stories with us.
Very interesting doc, Dan. Somewhat reminiscent of "Soft White Underbelly".
I came back to say something else b/c this film has been on my mind for days. In the town I grew up in (A beachside town on the East Coast of FL) there was a rundown long term stay motel near the train tracks for as long as I can remember. Mostly homeless or home insecure folks stayed there of course. It was always sad to drive by b/c they had a playground and lots of bikes and toys outside so you could tell there were kids there often. It was so run down and creepy. A little while ago it closed. I wondered where the folks living there would go. It was all redone and I figured it would probably open up as a more standard motel or be sold for doctors office space b/c its near the medical center in town. Then a sign went up stating the new name and its tagline “saving men’s lives”. It was purchased and redone to stay a long term stay motel but with a program attached for therapy, life skills training, employment matching and support group meetings. Its now men only Idk why, no more children allowed but the program seems great. Men can stay there for a very low rent fee as long as they join the program and attend the therapy and meetings. The goal is to have them employed and able to move out within 6 months to a year. I looked it up and it seems like there are lots of success stories. From
what I heard a few very wealthy folks in town got together, bought it and started a nonprofit to go along with it. They do fundraisers and galas with the beachside rich people in town to fund it. I think its great someone saw a place like where Scott and Margie lived and decided to do something to actually help people like them move on from the rut they are in.
Hello Dan, meanwhile I check out your channels and videos daily and I'm totally addicted to your great and unique work. This documentary is also somehow impressive because it brings the stories of two strangers really close to the audience and I hope that you can do more stuff like that.
I'm totally impressed by everything you do and I wish you all the best.
Best wishes from Germany 😊
My father in law passed from alcoholism. Over the years of drinking, it eroded his esophagus and he essentially vomited his esophagus up and it killed him. There were signs months prior like not eating and if he did eat it came back up. Sadly it was preventable but he refused to see a doctor.
Definitely has The Florida Project feel
Brilliant Dan!, Margie was an amazing strong woman and sad that she had tough times that squished her ambition, she could have gone places! Real eye opener, the further you fall, the harder it is to climb back up.
Hi Shailee, very true about Margie. I can personally relate to how that feels. Sometimes you try so hard, but nothing seems to work out. These difficult times make it nearly impossible or it definitely feels that way.
Dan, this made me feel like I haven't felt in a while. To the last second of this. I'm fucking crying and I don't know if it's because I'm happy or sad. Thank you for this.
This was absolutely beautifully done. I truly hope both of them have found peace on the other side. Margie's love for animals touched me so much, and poor Scott was just so sad. I just wish I could hug them both. Thank you for sharing this amazing work with us.
Margie and Scott are beautiful people. Much love to them both, theirs is the story of many.
OMG that alligator scene 🙈 Really drives home how uninhibited we become when alcohol is driving us. Heartbreaking end, but this documentary was a beautiful display of reality and humanity. Margie was so cool, I would have loved to hang out with her.
A fool I am for not having notifications on ToT
Glad to see you make this wow!!
aww gosh, 50 mins in and I feel for Margie and Scott both, the people in their lives are so controlling and rude to them...berating them for issues when they could just walk away. I'm glad the two can relate on how narcissistic their spouses are to bond and regain some autonomy in their lives, rest in peace.
Extraordinary! Totally gripping 🇬🇧🇺🇸
just finnished absolutely great work, very touching for me. im quite a bit younger but ive been exactly where margie and scott were in this film. may they rest in peace