Nonfics is not able to review every documentary and nonfiction film released in the U.S. That’s why Docs In Theaters is here to provide at least a guide to all the new releases, without critical thoughts. Where available, we will link to our own review of the film or a review at our sister site, Film School Rejects.
Elaine Stritch: Shoot Me
Directed and produced by Chiemi Karasawa (producer of Billy the Kid and The Betrayal)
Executive produced by Alec Baldwin (Seduced and Abandoned) and Cheryl Wiesenfeld
Edited by Kjerstin Rossi (Harry Dean Stanton: Partly Fiction) and Pax Wasserman (Devil’s Playground)
Featuring Elaine Stritch, Alec Baldwin, John Turturro, Nathan Lane, Tina Fey, James Gandolfini, Hal Prince, George C. Wolfe, Cherry Jones
Official Synopsis: Now in her late 80s, Broadway legend Elaine Stritch remains as ferociously funny as ever. In this bold, hilarious and poignant portrait, the uncompromising Tony and Emmy Award-winner is revealed both on and off stage. Candid reflections about her life are punctuated with words from friends (including James Gandolfini, Tina Fey, John Turturro, Hal Prince, George C. Wolfe, Nathan Lane and Cherry Jones) and archival footage that showcases some of the great moments from her career. Whether dominating the stage, tormenting Alec Baldwin on the set of 30 Rock, or sharing her struggles with aging, diabetes and alcoholism, Elaine Stritch: Shoot Me reaches beyond the icon’s brassy exterior and reveals an inspiring portrait of a complex woman and artist. [Sundance Selects]
Winner of the Audience Choice Award at the 2013 Chicago International Film Festival
Nonfics Rating: ★★★★ [Review by Daniel Walber]
Now playing at IFC Center and Lincoln Plaza Cinema in New York City.
For details on current and upcoming theatrical openings, check the In Theaters page on the film’s website.
The Standbys
Directed and produced by Stephanie Riggs
Executive produced by Steven C. Beer (Seduced and Abandoned) and John Pinckard
Featuring Daniel Radcliffe, Nathan Lane, John Leguizamo, Zachary Quinto, Bebe Neuwirth, David Hyde Pierce, Merwin Foard, Aléna Watters, Ben Crawford, Michael Riedel
Official Synopsis: Every night on Broadway dozens of the best performers aren’t on stage. They are backstage, standing by, ready to go on at a moment’s notice. The unique and challenging lives of Broadway’s understudies and standbys are revealed in this evocative and original behind-the-scenes documentary. The Standbys is for everyone who loves show business, and those who aspire to make their mark in it. [Nehst Media Enterprises ]
Nonfics Rating: n/a
Now playing at the Quad Cinema in New York City.
For details, check the the film’s website.
