Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work (2010/R)

Directed by Ricki Stern
Co-Directed by Annie Sundberg

     A Piece Of Work exposes the private dramas of irreverent, legendary comedian and pop icon Joan Rivers as she fights tooth and nail to remain the queen of comedy. Filmed as a cinema verite documentary, the film reveals a rare glimpse of the comedic process and the toxic mixture of self-doubt and anger that often fuels it.
     Joan’s story is both an outrageously funny journey and a brutally honest look at the ruthless entertainment industry, the trappings of success and the ultimate vulnerability of the life of a performer. With unguarded access, the film cuts intimate scenes with Joan’s personal archive creating a lush visual landscape and cinematic backdrop for the narrative as it unfolds.
     Over the course of the year, Joan fights to reinvent herself and put herself back on top. She reveals in private that the years of exposure have taken a toll on her, leaving her raw and alone. Her longest lasting relationship is her manager who she ends up firing during the course of filming, severing her last tie to her past. In a dressing room before a show, she exposes a much-guarded vulnerability revealing all she has left is her performing.
An inspiration to some, a plastic surgery whore to others, Joan Rivers’ controversial personas are what continue to fascinate the public and draw audiences to her. The film provides a rare look at an iconic performer, stripped of her comedy masks and laying bare the truth of her life and inspiration.

"One of the most truthful documentaries about show business I've seen. Also maybe the funniest... She remains one of the most transgressive and fearless of comedians, and one of the quickest, fastest and most merciless. The doc shows a life force of formidable energy."
Roger Ebert, The Chicago Sun Times

"Sharp and irresistible. Rip-roaring… Her energy is a thing to behold..She’s the comedian as teller of uproariously toxic, gutbucket truths as surely as Lenny Bruce or Richard Pryor ever were…"
Owen Gleiberman, Entertainment Weekly

"An absolutely riveting portrait of a woman who is a creature of show business: tireless, ageless, unforgiving--and always, always funny."
Leonard Maltin, Secret's Out

"Profanely hilarious. Fasten your seat belts this doc will be a revelation.”
Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

Country of Origin: USA
Language: English

*includes box office fee

More Information:

http://www.joanriversapieceofwork.com/

http:// www.ifcfilms.com/films/joan-rivers-a-piece-of-work

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