The French title of this feature-length documentary (filmed in 1976, released in the US six years later), is Sartre par lui meme. In English and French, the point is made. The focus is of course on the famed French existentialist author/ poet/ playwright/ philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-80). Sartre himself appears on screen from time to time, discussing-but, wisely, never thoroughly explaining--his outlook on life. The film was codirected by longtime Sartre admirer Alexandre Astruc and Michel Contat. At 190 minutes, Sartre by Himself will probably appeal most to those already familiar with Sartre's works.
~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide