[5] Magnolia Pictures released the film theatrically in the United States and simultaneously via video on demand platforms on July 4, 2014.

My memoir has been optioned for a doc by Steve James (Hoop Dreams), with Martin Scorsese and Steven Zaillian as exec producers.

[15] Locations seen in the film include the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool, the Old Town Ale House, the Chateau Marmont, and Hotel Splendid.

[25] Ann Hornaday of The Washington Post gave the film 3/4 stars and wrote: "You may not have agreed with Ebert's reviews — you may not have thought he was such a nice guy.

"[26] Kate Muir of The Times wrote: "Fans of the great populist film critic Roger Ebert will be both moved and amused by Life Itself".

[27] Peter Travers of Rolling Stone wrote: "Though Life Itself is a warts-and-all portrait Ebert didn't live to review, my guess is his thumbs would be shooting upward.

"[28] Mark Kermode, writing for The Observer, gave it a score of 4/5 stars and wrote: "this lovely, insightful film is a splendidly watchable tribute to a truly cinematic life.

""[32] Kristy Puchko of CinemaBlend gave the film 2.5/5 stars, writing: "Life Itself is ultimately nowhere near as inspiring, entertaining, or mirth-filled as the man himself.