STEVE! (martin) a documentary in 2 pieces | agoodmovietowatch
STEVE! (martin) a documentary in 2 pieces 7.3 2024 Show

STEVE! (martin) a documentary in 2 pieces

United States of America · English

A treat for fans and newcomers alike, this documentary is a lovely look at the creative mind of comedian Steve Martin

Our take by Renee Cuisia

Directed by Morgan Neville (20 Feet From Stardom, Won’t You Be My Neighbor), Steve! is an appropriately fun and artistic documentary capturing its subject matter’s fun and artistic spirit. It’s a delight to see Martin’s other personas, such as his early magician self, his philosophy major self, and his quietly humorous cartoonist self. We’re so used to seeing his fast-paced zaniness that these parts of the documentary are almost shocking to see. But maybe the most illuminating role Martin plays is that of his current self. In equal measure, he cracks jokes and offers wise words about aging which, at 75, he takes in enviously great stride.

What happens

Steve Martin is one of the most beloved and enigmatic figures in entertainment. Dive into his extraordinary story from two distinct points of view—past and present—as Martin reflects on how his beginnings led to his unexpectedly fulfilling life today.

What the critics said

Notable Critics

"“Then” and “Now” go down smoothly enough to watch at home, but it’s only “Then” that captures a specific moment in American culture crucial for any young comedy nerds to learn about."

— Vikram Murthi

"It’s a clever move to make what is essentially two feature-length documentaries about the man, and yet it still somehow feels like some of this story remains untold. That’s just how rich Steve Martin’s career has been."

— Brian Tallerico

More about it

What happens

In this titular documentary, Steve Martin narrates his life in two parts: Then, which focuses on his up-and-coming journey as a comic magician, and Now, which gives us a look at present-day Martin, who is as busy and funny as ever at 75.

What sets it apart

The cartoons! The New Yorker, let Martin draw and caption for you, you cowards.

TL;DR

Steve Martin is a Hollywood gem and it's great to see a documentary understand that and preserve his legacy.

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About the author

Renee Cuisia

Renee Cuisia

Renee Cuisia is the lead curator at A Good Movie to Watch. In her spare time, she likes to watch K-dramas and analyze them to death. She's also seen You've Got Mail one too many times but is still convinced it's one of the greatest films out there.