Magnolia Pictures has released the first Life Itself trailer for director Steve James’ (Hoop Dreams) documentary about legendary film critic Roger Ebert.  I caught the film at Sundance and was a big fan.  It’s a loving tribute to Ebert’s life and legacy, touching on his contributions to the world of cinema, film criticism, and, fittingly, life itself.  This trailer offers a solid overview of the feature and is actually quite moving, as it begins by tracing Ebert’s path to becoming a film critic before delving into his passionate and competitive relationship with Gene Siskel.  The film includes interviews with a number of Ebert’s colleagues and admirers, and it’s framed by footage that James shot during the last few months of Ebert’s life, as even his battle with cancer and inability to speak couldn’t keep him from talking about the movies.

Hit the jump to watch the Life Itself trailer and click here to read my full review.  Life Itself will be available VOD and in theaters on July 4th.

Click over to Apple to watch the Life Itself trailer in HD.

Here’s the official synopsis for Life Itself:

Acclaimed director Steve James (Hoop Dreams) and executive producers Martin Scorsese (The Departed) and Steven Zaillian (Moneyball) present LIFE ITSELF, a documentary film that recounts the inspiring and entertaining life of world-renowned film critic and social commentator Roger Ebert—a story that is by turns personal, funny, painful, and transcendent. Based on his bestselling memoir of the same name, LIFE ITSELF explores the legacy of Roger Ebert’s life, from his Pulitzer Prize-winning film criticism at the Chicago Sun-Times to becoming one of the most influential cultural voices in America.