Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work
By Rachna Kapur
May 28, 2010
Comedian/Actress Joan Rivers
UM Rating: B-
"Save your money when you’re young, so you don't have to whore yourself out when you're old"- Joan Rivers
Witty, edgy and a pioneer that paved the way for the next generation of female comedians, Joan Rivers is more than just a plastic face. A life full of difficulties and determination, Joan Rivers made her mark in comedy and is now sharing her challenges and history with the world in a documentary entitled "Joan Rivers- A Piece of Work".
The documentary starts off with an unmasked Rivers getting her make-up applied, and leads us on a journey full of disappointment, resentment, insecurity, opportunity and sadness- the journey of her life. Flashbacks of Rivers on the Johnny Carson show, performing stand-up at various venues, and her days on the Celebrity Apprentice fill us in on the many highs and lows in her journey to fame. Viewers also get a glimpse into her relationship with her daughter, the death of her husband and her love affair with plastic surgery. The filmmakers, Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg followed Rivers for a year, and created a masterpiece in which viewers get a taste of what it is like to be 'Joan Rivers'.
Through the ups and downs, Rivers has persevered in the struggle of maintaining a successful career in comedy. For those not familiar with Rivers past, this documentary sheds light to not only how she has achieved fame, but also how she works hard to maintain it. Regardless of whether you are a fan or not, this documentary brings you a rare glimpse into the life, passion and determination of an iconic comedian and makes you admire the strong, independent woman she is.
Joan Rivers- A Piece of Work opens on June 11, 2010.
"Save your money when you’re young, so you don't have to whore yourself out when you're old"- Joan Rivers
Witty, edgy and a pioneer that paved the way for the next generation of female comedians, Joan Rivers is more than just a plastic face. A life full of difficulties and determination, Joan Rivers made her mark in comedy and is now sharing her challenges and history with the world in a documentary entitled "Joan Rivers- A Piece of Work".
The documentary starts off with an unmasked Rivers getting her make-up applied, and leads us on a journey full of disappointment, resentment, insecurity, opportunity and sadness- the journey of her life. Flashbacks of Rivers on the Johnny Carson show, performing stand-up at various venues, and her days on the Celebrity Apprentice fill us in on the many highs and lows in her journey to fame. Viewers also get a glimpse into her relationship with her daughter, the death of her husband and her love affair with plastic surgery. The filmmakers, Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg followed Rivers for a year, and created a masterpiece in which viewers get a taste of what it is like to be 'Joan Rivers'.
Through the ups and downs, Rivers has persevered in the struggle of maintaining a successful career in comedy. For those not familiar with Rivers past, this documentary sheds light to not only how she has achieved fame, but also how she works hard to maintain it. Regardless of whether you are a fan or not, this documentary brings you a rare glimpse into the life, passion and determination of an iconic comedian and makes you admire the strong, independent woman she is.
Joan Rivers- A Piece of Work opens on June 11, 2010.