Exporting Raymond

Phil Rosenthal is the co-creator of the hit American TV show "Everybody Loves Raymond". He is offered a chance to adapt it to Russian TV. He is brought to Moscow but it's a case of fish out of water. An early nemesis is costumer Elena Starodubtseva who wants the highest of fashion for this regular middle class family. The writers are single and they don't get his comedy about marriage. Later, Phil finds out that they are overworked in this new field of sitcom writing in Russia. His constant support is translator Marina. There are problems with the executives and the hiring of the lead that he wants. In the end, it is the twists and turns of getting a TV show put on the screen. I don't watch "Everybody Loves Raymond" but that doesn't matter. It is a very insightful look in TV production no matter where. It is compelling to see if it works and actually funny with the exasperated Phil.

"Exporting Raymond" is an entertaining and insightful documentary that follows Everybody Loves Raymond creator Phil Rosenthal as he attempts to adapt his hit sitcom for a Russian audience. The film thrives on Rosenthal's neurotic humor and fish-out-of-water persona, as he struggles with cultural differences, skeptical producers, and a creative team that doesn't quite share his comedic vision.

One of the documentary's biggest strengths is its behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of adapting American humor for a foreign market. Watching Rosenthal navigate language barriers and cultural misunderstandings provides plenty of laughs, but also offers an interesting commentary on the universality (or lack thereof) of comedy. His interactions with the Russian cast and crew, particularly the stubborn costume designer and the gruff, no-nonsense network executives, make for some of the film's most memorable moments.

However, while the documentary is charming and funny, it does feel repetitive at times, with some conflicts dragging on longer than necessary. Rosenthal's self-deprecating style is engaging, but his frequent bewilderment occasionally borders on exasperating. A bit more exploration into the success (or failure) of the adaptation after his departure would have added a stronger conclusion.

Overall, Exporting Raymond is an enjoyable, lighthearted look at the challenges of cross-cultural entertainment. While it doesn't delve too deeply into the bigger questions about globalization and media, it's a fun and engaging watch-especially for fans of Everybody Loves Raymond or anyone interested in the business of television.

I saw this last night at a preview screening, and it was hilarious and extremely well done. The audience was laughing out loud from the first minute to the last, and also touched. I can't recommend it highly enough.

Phil Rosenthal made a delightfully sympathetic main character who remained incredibly nice, sincere and dedicated to the art of his task through an amazing array of frustrating obstacles. The story was truly stranger than fiction and fascinating to watch. It's a must-see for anyone in the film/TV business, or anyone who just likes to laugh.

If you can find a preview of this movie - go, and drag your friends.

I just recently saw a test screening of this film at my school. Apart from issue-driven documentaries with some comedic elements like Super Size Me and Michael Moore's films, "Exporting Raymond" may very well be the first true comedy documentary.

While running into language barriers and culture differences as to what is funny, director Rosenthal tells a very funny and surprisingly often touching story about his efforts to adapt his American hit "Everybody Loves Raymond" for Russian audiences.

It is filled with several memorable "characters" that you just can't make up in real life! And you don't have to be a fan of the TV show to enjoy this documentary!

Philip Rosenthal wrote and produced the TV show "Everybody Loves Raymond". Now that the show has run its course in the States, Rosenthal is trying to sell the idea of the series to the Russians. The problem is that the cultures are very, very different. What's funny in America isn't always funny in Russia and vice-versa. As "Raymond" wasn't as broadly written as some more successful comedies in Russia (such as "The Nanny"). And, in addition, so often Rosenthal has no idea what's going on when he visits the country--so much gets lost in translation.

I noticed that another reviewer found this documentary hilarious. Well, I didn't--and this isn't a complaint, really. It is occasionally droll. But what I think is that the film is insightful and gives the viewer a look at cross-cultural differences--and that's what I appreciated about the film. Not a must-see, but very enjoyable. And, in some ways it reminds me of the Albert Brooks film "Looking For Comedy In The Muslim World" combined with an episode of Anthony Bourdain or Andrew Zimern's shows on travel and gastronomy. Rosenthal just visits with various Russians and films whatever happens--for good or bad. Interesting.