Netflix’s aka Charlie Sheen: Candid but Divisive Documentary on the Actor’s Turbulent Life

Netflix’s new two-part documentary aka Charlie Sheen, directed by Andrew Renzi, delivers an unflinching look at the actor’s meteoric rise, infamous public meltdowns, and long battle with addiction. Spanning three hours, the film features Sheen speaking candidly about his childhood, career highs, and highly publicized personal struggles, alongside interviews with ex-wives Denise Richards and Brooke Mueller, longtime friends like Sean Penn, and former costar Jon Cryer. Released September 10 to coincide with the publication of Sheen’s memoir, The Book of Sheen, the film promises an intimate portrait of his turbulent life — but critics remain divided.

Daniel Feinberg (The Hollywood Reporter) praised the documentary’s access but criticized its uneven tone, describing it as both engrossing and exhausting. While Sheen emerges as a witty and honest storyteller, Feinberg argues the relentless focus on scandals overshadows his artistry.

Alison Herman (Variety) called the documentary “odd, frustrating, occasionally intriguing,” pointing out that it struggles to balance new revelations with familiar narratives. One buzzed-about moment involves Sheen alluding to his sexuality, leaving the director to clarify that Sheen has had relationships with men. Herman also noted the film glosses over key chapters, including his Anger Management stint, firing from Two and a Half Men, and reconciliation with Chuck Lorre.

Nick Hilton (The Independent) viewed the film as a carefully managed act of image rehabilitation but acknowledged its compelling visuals and inventive use of archival footage. He praised its candidness, particularly Sheen’s openness about his bisexuality, calling it “liberating” for the actor.

Lucy Mangan (The Guardian) was far harsher, criticizing the documentary for lacking accountability and self-reflection. She argued that while Richards and Mueller provide raw honesty, the absence of Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez leaves the portrait incomplete.

Across reviews, critics agree that aka Charlie Sheen offers unprecedented access and striking revelations. Still, its ultimate success in transcending Sheen’s tabloid reputation remains up for debate.

The two-part documentary aka Charlie Sheen is now streaming on Netflix.