A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story – part of the lineup at the Palm Springs International Film Festival.
The by-line above is part of the title of this remarkable documentary about everything Liza Minnelli. Directed by Bruce David Klein.
That would be Liza with a “Z” (referring to the 1972 concert film made for television, produced by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse) who went on to win every entertainment award you can imagine, in every single category, and who is refreshingly honest as she tells her story in present day while going through old movie clips and reliving those times. She gives out solid advice like: “never hang around with dull people.” From this doc it is clear she never has. I try not to, but sometimes they just happen to slip in.
As the daughter of Judy Garland and director Vincente Minnelli, she could’ve easily lived in her mother’s shadow. Instead, she became an iconic show biz force of her own nature. You find out about the relationship with her mother, her bond with mentor Kay Thompson who took Liza under her wings after Judy Garland passed away, her friends such as Charles Aznavour (considered the Frank Sinatra of France), Bob Fosse, Halston (an inseparable duo in the 70’s and 80’s, regularly supporting each other’s careers, traveling internationally and taking on the Studio 54 nightclub scene), her up-and-down marriages, personal and professional falls and showbiz triumphs.
By the way, Kay Thompson was a force of her own. The vivacious vocal coach, composer, dancer, actress, and choreographer was a staple in Liza’s life. She was there for Liza until the end of her life in 1998 at which time she lived in Minnelli’s penthouse on the Upper East Side. Thompson stayed by Liza’s side, through thick and thin, cheering her on through everything. Thompson became famous for creating the Eloise children’s books which she apparently modeled the main character after Minnelli, and for her role in the movie Funny Face. She helped shaped Minnelli’s career. Now; that’s a friend!
And I have a little story of my own. First off, I saw Liza Minnelli and Charles Aznavour perform together at Place Des Arts in Montreal in 1993. It was superb. I’ve always appreciated all kinds of music, and the sheer talent of these two. I would’ve rather seen them, than a regular rock concert. It was a very powerful, showstopper of an evening.
Then, on one of my many visits to New York City back in the day, I went with a friend to Elaine’s restaurant on the upper East side. We were finished dinner and debating whether or not to order dessert when all of a sudden Liza Minnelli and two of her friends came in and sat down at the very next table. We ordered dessert. After dessert I went to use the restroom and as I was washing my hands, a stall opened and out came Liza. We were the only two in the restroom and I did not utter a word – just a smile. Back to the table to try to eavesdrop, but only a bit. Ha.
Once again; while in the pass-holder lineup, I chatted with a woman who looked vaguely familiar. Once inside the theater, we sat next to each other, realizing that we had been to not one, but two of the same events recently but sat at different tables. Then we went through our phone pics to confirm and to see if we could find each other in the photos. She said “many people have more in common than not” which I also believe. Except the only thing I have in common with Liza was being at the same restaurant and washing our hands together. I usually don’t get star struck but I clammed up. I should’ve told her that I saw her concert with Aznavour in Montreal. I think she would’ve been pleased. Note to self: if I ever get the opportunity again, I will do so.
After watching this documentary, I have a new appreciation for Liza Minnelli. She’s so much more than her most amazing Oscar-winning performance as Sally Bowles in the 1972 film Cabaret. She’s a true friend who goes above and beyond as told by others such as Mia Farrow, Ben Vereen, Joel Grey, and Michael Feinstein. These friends share their insights and memories, providing a heartfelt and genuine portrait of Liza’s life and career.
Well worth the watch.
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