Director Robert Greene’s latest documentary “Too Much Sugar” presents an unconventional family portrait centered on Ryan “Holli-wood” Hollinger, a self-proclaimed patriarch from Missouri with six children from five different women. The former amateur MMA fighter and carpenter initially appears as the film’s central character, with Greene initially framing the project around themes of fatherhood. However, the documentary evolves into something far more complex and revealing as other family members begin to tell their own stories.
Greene’s innovative approach involves allowing each family member to create their own short films, which he then weaves together into a multifaceted narrative. This structure enables voices that were previously overshadowed by Ryan’s dominant personality to emerge with newfound prominence. Family members including adult son Gavin, pro fighter Tray, and teenagers Wayde, Hank, and young Bonnie each contribute their perspectives, while extended family like Michael—grieving the loss of his son to gang violence—and Amanda, Ryan’s long-term partner, gain prominence as the film progresses.
The documentary explores themes extending well beyond its initial premise, delving into grief, trauma, and personal liberation alongside questions of fatherhood. Amanda, initially a quiet presence, becomes increasingly vocal about Ryan’s infidelity and absence, emerging as the film’s most sympathetic figure. The resulting work functions as both a compelling character study and a meditation on performance, authenticity, and narrative authority in documentary filmmaking, positioning it as a potential standout at the festival circuit and beyond.
Originally reported by Variety →
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