Honest Man: The Life of R. Budd Dwyer

James Dirschberger's documentary traces the life and shocking death of R. Budd Dwyer (1939–1987), a Pennsylvania politician who committed suicide on live television after being convicted of accepting kickbacks on a state contract. As the title suggests, Honest Man disputes aspects of the case against Dwyer, who was state treasurer when he was charged with taking a bribe from a California company. Dwyer maintained his innocence and refused to resign, but when he was convicted in December 1986, his career seemed destroyed, and an unsuccessful last-minute attempt to seek a pardon from President Ronald Reagan only fueled his desperation. However, Pennsylvania law enabled him to remain in office until being sentenced. On January 22, 1987, the day before his sentencing, Dwyer held a press conference during which he pulled a revolver out of a bag and fatally shot himself through the mouth (the extremely graphic video of Dwyer's death is presented here). The film clearly aims to rehabilitate Dwyer's reputation, weaving news clips and archival footage together with interviews of friends, colleagues, journalists, and family members, including his widow. Whether or not it affirms his innocence may be a matter of differing opinion among viewers, but it does offer a stirring look at a tragic figure. DVD extras include audio commentary, archival material, deleted scenes, and a slideshow. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)