Joan Rivers, A Piece of Work

“Joan Rivers --A Piece of Work” is a documentary covering a year in the life of this 75 year old actress/comedienne (she prefers “actress”). Directed by Ricki Stern and Anne Sundberg, this film takes us not only backstage but into the very essence of Ms. Rivers‘personal life. We watch the sacrifices, joys, tragedies and struggles that have befallen this valiant survivor in one of the toughest businesses around. Whether losing a life long manager relationship, bemoaning a 4:30PM gig in the Bronx, losing a husband to suicide, antagonizing her mentor (Johnny Carson) or simply becoming the butt (no pun intended) of every aging or plastic surgery joke, this lady lands on top no matter in what position she falls as she shares with the camera (and ultimately the audience) who she really is and how she really thinks. It is obvious that Ms. Rivers has allowed the filmmakers to enter her private world with no handle on the reins or right of any approval. This of course makes for a bare, open and, most of all, honest, film. One leaves the theater after having spent 84 minutes with Ms. Rivers with tremendous respect, admiration and affection for this aging icon as she struggles to retain and maintain a theatrical life. As she herself said “I’m never happier than when I’m performing on stage”…and for those who enjoy her performances, they’re never happier either. I give this film 3 stars with a strong recommendation that it be seen and enjoyed. No question that this is a terrific PR boost for her but not because of how she is selectively portrayed but, more importantly, because of the innate quality that is hers in every and any circumstance.