By Jan Wahl–
Many of us feel we know Liza Minnelli, given her openness and lifetime in the spotlight. In my case, I went to at least four of her concerts in San Francisco, as well as to a tribute to her father, and a birthday party for her at the Fairmont San Francisco’s Tonga Room.
My mother visited Liza in her dressing room. I also treasure the memory of being with Liza in a limo as we bonded over the joys—and challenges—of sobriety.
Now there is a new feature documentary, Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story, out on the big screen. It is 104 captivating minutes directed by Bruce David Klien. It features Liza’s family and friends, and the legend herself, taking a deep dive into showbiz survival.
This film is inspiring, showing her stamina and resilience. We first see Liza in a room directing shots and cameras, revealing her professional savvy. Her sense of style and humor are evident throughout the film as we watch how she found her own identity out from under the weighty fame of her mother Judy Garland and father Vincente Minnelli.
She wisely cultivated mentors. She sought out Bob Fosse, Fred Ebb, Kay Thompson, Halston, Charles Aznavour, and others. Director Klein gathered together a great collection of interview subjects, including Michael Feinstein, who contextualize her for us, providing the story behind the story.
The film has an affectionate tone, but also includes heavy passages about drugs, miscarriages, and burnout. The documentary is broken into chapters. There are laugh out loud moments as the film moves from the worlds of Studio 54 to fashion to Broadway, with friends touting Liza’s amazing ability to remain loyal and caring to her diverse circles. This is a tribute to someone still with us. It is gentle in its intentions, meaningful, and as entertaining as Liza is herself.
Liza’s life is as radiant as her art. How has she survived, given so much time in the fast lane and a slew of health challenges? Long live Liza! On March 12, she celebrated her 79th birthday.
If you want to see my favorite Liza films, you can easily find them. Cabaret is at the top of my list, but I am in love with another pure acting performance of hers, in the movie Arthur. Some of you might have missed Stepping Out; New York, New York; and Lucky Lady. Look for those films too.
More New Documentaries
Other new documentaries worth seeking out include Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink (about a secret hedge fund plundering American newspapers and the journalists who are fighting back), the Academy Award-winning No Other Land, and Sly Lives! (about Sly Stone).
Jan Wahl is a Hollywood historian and film critic on various broadcast outlets. She has two Emmys and many awards for her longtime work on behalf of film buffs and the LGBTQ community. Contact her at www.janwahl.com
Off the Wahl
Published on March 13, 2025
Recent Comments