The documentary 'Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost' shines a spotlight on the beloved comedy duo, Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara, through the lens of their son, Ben Stiller. But is it a captivating tribute or a sugar-coated adoration?
This film is a heartfelt celebration of a husband-and-wife comedy team who rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s. Their unique brand of stand-up sketch comedy, rooted in their contrasting personalities, captivated audiences and set the stage for the era of 'Annie Hall'. However, the reviewer initially worries that the film might be overly reverential, almost to the point of being excessive.
But here's where it gets intriguing... The documentary reveals a complex and nuanced story. While Stiller and Meara were successful, they were not superstars. Their act, which drew from their own lives, had an edge of conviction, but also a touch of corniness and datedness. And yet, their routines, like the satire of computer dating and the 'Hate' sketch, were undeniably ahead of their time.
The film, directed by their son Ben Stiller, provides an intimate family portrait. It explores the couple's loving yet complicated marriage, filled with fights and clashes. Interestingly, the reviewer speculates that if Stiller and Meara had achieved greater fame, their marriage might not have survived. The pressure of celebrity and money could have exacerbated their tensions.
A surprising twist: As the documentary unfolds, it transforms into a resonant portrait of a life-and-art marriage. Stiller and Meara's ability to compartmentalize their professional lives allowed them to prioritize family, a heroic and touching choice. The film showcases their family dynamics, including their children's talk show appearances and on-camera interviews, which reveal a deeper layer of their relationship.
The reviewer notes that Ben Stiller's own reflections on his flaws and his father's influence add a personal touch, but it doesn't quite delve into the intergenerational family demons as one might expect. Stiller and Meara's later careers as straight actors and their long-lasting marriage are also explored, with Jerry Stiller's mega-fame as George Costanza's father on 'Seinfeld' being a highlight.
In the end, 'Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost' is a moving tribute that goes beyond mere adoration. It presents a complex, layered story of a comedy duo whose impact extended far beyond the stage. And this is the part most people miss: It invites us to reflect on the delicate balance between fame, family, and the enduring power of a shared passion.
