Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary story of Stiller & Meara, a documentary that will leave you with a profound appreciation for the power of love and laughter.
The Comedy Gods of Olympus
At first glance, you might think this film is a simple celebration of a beloved comedy duo, Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara. But here's where it gets controversial... it's directed by their very own son, Ben Stiller, and he doesn't hold back in his adoration for his parents' legacy.
The documentary paints a picture of a husband-and-wife team who rose to fame in the 60s and 70s, captivating audiences with their unique brand of stand-up sketch comedy. Their success is undeniable, but the film goes beyond the spotlight to reveal the complexities of their relationship and the impact it had on their art.
A Sweet-and-Sour Legacy
Stiller and Meara's act was a reflection of their own lives, a blend of affection and spiky banter that hinted at the contrasting personalities that made them a perfect comedic duo. Their Jewish-Irish dynamic was a novelty at the time, and their fresh, trend-setting image made them a popular fixture on TV variety shows.
But as the documentary reveals, their success came with a cost. The pre-counterculture era they emerged from left them feeling a tad outdated by the time they became TV staples. Their greatest routines, like the satire of computer dating, were ahead of their time, but once you've laughed at their genius, you might wonder, is there more to uncover about these comedic legends?
A Family Portrait
And this is the part most people miss... the true heart of the documentary lies in the family portrait it paints. Shot after Jerry's death in 2020, the film captures Ben Stiller and his sister, Amy, reminiscing in the Upper West Side apartment where they grew up with their parents. The apartment is a treasure trove of memorabilia, a testament to Jerry's pack rat tendencies and his dedication to documenting their lives.
The family dynamic is portrayed as a happy and nurturing one, with Ben and Amy recalling their parents with a mix of amusement and understanding. It's clear that Jerry and Anne provided a creative and loving environment for their children, but the film doesn't shy away from the challenges they faced. Anne's reliance on alcohol to cope with the stresses of their performance life is addressed, but the film chooses to focus on the joy and well-being she exuded rather than the dark side of her addiction.
The Complexity of a Life-and-Art Marriage
As the film progresses, you might find yourself wondering, what more is there to uncover? But that's when "Stiller & Meara" takes an unexpected turn, transforming from a likable entertainment profile into a deeply resonant portrait of a complicated, yet loving, marriage.
Their backgrounds, though seemingly different, were more alike than we imagine. Jerry, a New York City native, and Anne, a self-described "Irish princess" from Long Island, found common ground in their tribal nature. Their success, while notable, might have led to their downfall had they achieved even greater fame. The tensions that simmered beneath the surface would have been exacerbated by celebrity and money, potentially leading to a detonation of their marriage.
Jerry, the perfectionist, drove Anne nuts with his insecurities, but perhaps this was a blessing in disguise. By keeping their professional lives in a compartment, they were able to prioritize family, a heroic and touching choice that allowed them to remain devoted to each other for 62 years.
A Mega-Fame and a Perfect Casting
In the 70s, Stiller and Meara pursued separate careers as straight actors, achieving real success. Jerry's casting as George Costanza's disgruntled father on "Seinfeld" was a stroke of genius, a role that seemed tailor-made for him. Ben describes his father as a "spiritual" man, a side that remained hidden from the camera, while Anne, on the other hand, was all soul, a generous and giving person who gave as good as she got.
"Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost" is a moving tribute to a couple who believed in something bigger than themselves. It streams on Apple TV+ starting Oct. 24, and it's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the beauty of a life well-lived and a love that endures.
