A 2023 documentary called Daniel, now streaming on HBO Max, has been praised for its emotional themes and “haunting”, spine-tingling ending that stays with viewers long after the credits roll.
The film follows Daniel Northcott, who began documenting his surroundings at age seven after getting hold of his dad’s video camera. He continued documenting his life into his 20s, when he started exploring the world.
TikTok review sparks interest
Popular TikTok creator Luke Ecclestone, who posts as Eccy Reviews, brought the documentary to wider attention. In a recent video, he urged viewers to watch it, saying: “You need to cancel whatever you [were] planning on watching tonight because I’ve just gone and found you the perfect documentary to go and watch.”
He added: “It is emotional, it will send shivers down your spine, and you genuinely never will forget the ending.”
Daniel’s story takes a dark turn
Luke explained that Daniel became a teacher in Asia until one day he entered a Mayan cave, where he was drawn to a rock. Despite warnings about bad spirits, he took the rock home. Three months later, he was diagnosed with leukaemia and began documenting his cancer journey.
“It is very emotional, it is very personal, it will definitely bring a tear to your eye,” Luke said. “When he begins to remember about this rock, he cannot find it - and it becomes a documentary that is super entertaining, but emotional.”
Viewers share emotional reactions
In the comments, viewers echoed the praise. One said: “It’s absolutely brilliant but very haunting.” Another commented: “Best documentary.” A third wrote: “Just watched it on Sky Docs, wow! One of the most powerful documentaries I’ve seen for a long time, good shout.”
Another viewer said: “Daniel documentary absolutely broke me and [I] get goosebumps every time I think of that ending.” Others described it as a “bittersweet watch” and confirmed the ending “gave me the shivers. Wow!”
Daniel is available to stream on HBO Max via NOW.
