marjoriewlee

Critics got WAY too worked up over this series. First of all, consider the source: it's NETFLIX, not Masterpiece Theater. It is a romp, not a tutorial. Enjoy it for what it is: a harmless filler for Covid boredom. Note the color coordination of the housing facades, the livery and the gowns of the competing families....the exaggerated wigs of the debutantes....at one point even the most AMAZING Afro! It caricatured period drama, Jane Austin, the Regency's fashions and mores....and accomplished that with a most beautiful and "raceless" cast. How refreshing!!!

Saw this film at the Berkshire FF and can't wait to see it again in Provincetown, MA. Mr. Hunter and Mr. Glaser received standing "O" at the end of the film and at their appearance for the Q and A's. For all of the intricacies of storytelling (it covers Hollywood history, Tab's personal history and struggles and the resolution he has come to) the film flows seamlessly. It is fascinatingly illustrated with studio stills, film clips, interviews and personal snapshots. Tab narrates the film, and his "concentration" as he looks at us is mesmerizing. He has shared incredible insights with his audience about his fame, his loves, his family....occasionally with a delightful, self-deprecating twinkle. Profoundly, however, it is his success as a human being that will touch us most.