The main goal of this project involved producing experimental plays by new authors/artists who might not have any other outlets. As the producer and artistic director, Handman worked with these diverse authors and with the directors as well as with the cast members. He also served as a successful acting coach for many students who are now famous, including Richard Gere, Michael Douglas, Connie Britton, Bill Irwin, Aasif Mandvi, Mia Farrow, Sam Shepard, Anna Deavere Smith, Allison Janney, Chris Cooper and Denzel Washington.
Fascinating testimonials from the people who worked with Handman make up most of this special documentary directed by Billy Lyons, Kim Ferraro and Seth Isler. It’s clear how revered Handman (now 97) is to them. He treats everyone with a gentle warmth that makes them feel comfortable. As an acting coach, that can make all the difference. He also emphasizes looking inward to the truth about yourself as well as the character being played in order to give an honest performance.
Wynn Handman is the master here
revealed on screen for us to cheer.
The scenes show actors giving praise
for theater projects he did raise.
To Wynn, theater and acting
assume importance like breathing.
His help to both have meant so much
because of his masterly touch.
Work with students who want to act
becomes almost a solemn pact.
Truth in inhabiting a role,
Wynn believes can create a soul.
He brought writers into the fold
and nurtured them like they were gold.
Such great respect this man has earned.
And I’m inspired by what I learned.
It Takes a Lunatic runs a bit too long (2 hours and 6 minutes). Although Handman’s experience in the Coast Guard influenced his interest in and thoughtful approach to acting, some interspersed scenes from that important period of his life fail to add much to this otherwise excellent documentary. But I think that would make another interesting film.
This would be a very good thing, if the theater took itself seriously as a factory of thought, an elucidator of social conscience, an armor against despair and dullness, and a temple of the ascent of man. --- George Bernard Shaw
(Released by Netflix. Not rated by MPAA.)
as always, I enjoyed reading your interesting, informative review
never stop writing
m
I've always been concerned about the influence of Shakespeare and the seeming requirement that all actors do Shakespeare in order to show their acting ability. And the predominance of English actors in all facets of theater and movies. Finding most of the movies about ancient Rome done during the 1950s and 60s were cast with British actors with British accents. One notable exception was Tony Curtis. I don't know why Italian actors didn't protest. Maybe they did.
Ron