Who were the true trendsetters of the world of sitcoms?
The Dick Van Dyke Show was one of the first big series back in the mid-20th century. The Mary Tyler Moore Show was even a spinoff from that classic sitcom. But there was one couple who defined what a sitcom could be and how significant such a show could truly be. Lucille Ball…Desi Arnaz…Lucy and Desi. This powerful couple were the anchors for one of the greatest sitcoms ever created…I Love Lucy.
Who would be the ideal person to tell the story of this iconic couple?
Amy Poehler! Wait…Amy Poehler? Leslie Knope. Best comedy friends with Tina Fey. Honestly…it makes kind of sense. Poehler has made a splash on modern sitcoms as an iconic sitcom lead and now she gets to highlight the first queen of sitcoms in with Ball. There is plenty of passion here and you can tell this is a project that inspired her to do the direction.
The footage from the film is presented in a way like we are watching an old film coming across the screen. This vintage look matches well with the classic television subjects of the film.
There is an old-school documentary style to it with quick cuts to recorders and tapes.
How does Poehler play out the love and careers of the Arnaz’?
In many ways, the structure of the film feels safe and classic (which might feel like it is a part of the charm). But don’t get me wrong, this is a passionate and moving film that transcends one of those A&E types by-the-numbers biopic documentaries. You feel the layers of not only their professional relationship, but we feel how that stressor permeated into their marriage. You see their connection, the achievements they were able to reach (both together and separate), and the lasting impact they had on the entertainment landscape.
But who tells the audience about these two wonderful and legendary entertainers?
The most personal perspectives are from them. There are audio recordings that Poehler incorporates into her film that adds dimensions to the proceedings. The next best would be their family. Their daughter brings a lot of personal perspectives that adds things that friends and peers could never do (which is a great plus for the film). But then you get a parade of influential and iconic entertainers who give their perspective on how these two shaped the field and influenced them. You can feel Poehler’s own feelings being channeled by the likes of Carol Burnett, Bette Midler, Charo, Norman Lear, and others.
Does Poehler do justice for the legacy of these icons?
A wonderful trip down memory lane that will certainly engage those ready to be charmed by the life and legacy of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.
Tweet
This is a classy and respectful documentary. Lucy and Desi offer up plenty of heart and passion while portraying the life and legacy of this power couple. The ups and downs are all highlighted with great footage.
