i saw this film at Hot Docs and then a new sound mix/ edit and i must say it has truly come alive. a film that was a great idea with a wonderful heart has become a beautiful film about love and life and what people need. the intimacy of some of the scenes really makes the film's quiet qualities involve the viewer. the connection between the impersonators and tribute bands, the first and 2nd generation fans all seemed to be wrapped up in a single word: LOVE. a very nice theme for a documentary nowadays. as it was ending i thought "would i like to see the outtakes?" and the answer was yes. that's the greatest compliment i can give the film! though it is not a perfectly filmed movie the experience was well worth it.

What a treat this film turned out to be. I enjoyed the information on different people who make a living impersonating and performing Neil Diamond. Jay White was especially insightful as was Rick Pierce and Tom Sadge. I have seen all three perform and it was entertaining to see information on their real lives. Feel Neil, has such raw and true comedy throughout, I enjoyed this. The fans were not portrayed negatively and yet I could laugh genuinely and identify with their adoration for Neil Diamond. The birthday party was so entertaining and it made me make my reservation for this years celebration. The object of the director/producer/filmmaker,David Sarich,was to let us come away "Felling Neil" I definetly did!

"Feel Neil" brought me a satisfaction I shall cherish. I have been a "Neil Diamond" fan for years, and was mesmerized with the uniqueness of this film. David Sarich opens a new vista to the art of impersonation. He leaves no stone unturned as he weaves a story of fans and impersonators carrying on the love for the legend, NEIL DIAMOND. From the first Punk Rock Group, THE NEILISTS(their music is in the film), to the lives of Tom Sadge,Jay White, Rick Pierce and others, you are caught up. It is fast paced, informational and in-depth. The fans are genuine and honest and true "Diamondheads". One becomes eager to see the next frame of film and witness the spontinaity and creativity. Sarich is to be commended for the open perspective and research he brought to this film. This is an honest,informative and amusing film. I laughed, I watched, I listened, I became "one of the fans", and most of all I loved being able to "Feel Neil". "A "must see" especially for Neil Diamond fans!

Much like its director, David Sarich, this is a quirky and fun film. David followed several Neil Diamond impersonators, tribute bands and fans. I never knew that he was the 3rd most impersonated celebrity after Elvis and Madonna. It is funny, weird and sometimes frightening. The Diamondhead subculture is unique, but the bottom line is that the people are having a great time. David must have enjoyed putting this film together. It was screened at the Tidal Wave Film Festival in Fredericton, November 2003.