The Devil and Daniel Johnston is a stunning portrait of a musical genius that nearly slipped away. It depicts a perfect example of brilliance and madness going hand in hand. Because Daniel Johnston is an artist suffering from manic depression with delusions of grandeur, wild fluctuations, numerous downward spirals, and periodic respites mark his life. The film artfully melds current footage, vintage performances, home movies, and dozens of recorded audiotapes from Johnstons life. Testimony from supportive friends and a deeply committed family adds a rich layer to Johnstons personal history, but Daniel Johnstons poetic songs tell their own passionate, haunting, and truly unforgettable story.