Bill W. Traces the Early Life of Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous has tens of thousands of groups worldwide today, but it had an identifiable beginning with its co-founder Bill Wilson. In their documentary, "Bill W.," Kevin Hanlon and Dan Carracino recount Wilson's biography, which is inextricably linked to the developmental history of this lifesaving organization. But this film's impact is hampered by a slavish adherence to chronology and vintage audio materials. Bill W., as he was known in A.A. parlance, was a Wall Street analyst who battled the bottle during the Depression. In the 1930s he went from the proverbial rock bottom in an era of limited treatment options to proselytizing a fellowship-based model that would become the 12-step program. He was influenced by the evangelical Oxford Group, supported by his tireless wife and friends, and evidently aided by strong management skills and an entrepreneurial drive. Wilson was 75 when he died in 1971. Historians and members of Alcoholics Anonymous, typically in dimmed lighting to hide their identities, mete out an archivally augmented account of the turning points and relationships in Wilson's life. But the filmmakers overuse excerpts from his (entertainingly) radio-ready speeches and rely on inert re-enactments that include portraying members of a banquet audience simply sitting and listening. This strategy reflects a general weakness in the way they have condensed, prioritized and cast the visual identity of the story. Names and events are ticked off in rapid succession, and the big, and fascinating, question of what role spirituality played receives cautious attention at best. Nonetheless, "Bill W." offers a trove of information for non-A.A. members through the life of a man whose dedication has helped others understand their own. Opened on May 18 in Manhattan and other selected cities nationwide. Written, produced and directed by Kevin Hanlon and Dan Carracino; director of photography, Ryo Murakami; edited by Patrick Gambuti Jr. In Manhattan at the Quad Cinema, 34 West 13th Street, Greenwich Village. Running time: 1 hour 43 minutes.