Moon over Broadway

Moon over Broadway
by D.A. Pennebaker, Chris Hegedus

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DVD Cover Information

• Hailed as irresistible by the New York Times, Moon Over Broadway is a no-holds barred, behind-the scenes look at the making of the Broadway comedy, Moon Over Buffalo, starring TV sensation Carol Burnett. Revealing what really goes on before the curtain comes up, Moon Over Broadway celebrates the genius and the madness that goes into the making of a Broadway show. So unbelievable it has to be true,

Movie Reviews of Moon over Broadway

Movie Review: One of the Best DVDs Commentary Tracks EVER.
Summary: 5 Stars

Well things perhaps don't turn out as bad as you might believe. The show did wind up being moderately successful and audiences seemed to enjoy this bit of theatrical fluff.

Particularly interesting is the inter-play between the writer Ludwig, director Tom Moore, and the stars. There's a few truly candid moments caught with the producer and some of the show's backers as well. Being privvy to the whole process is a fascinating and educational experience.

But if you are lucky enough to have the DVD of the film, we are from over. As Paul Harvey would say... and then there's The Rest of the Story. . . .

The DVD has a commentary track that is no holds barred and reveals much more than the film ever could. The commentaries from the various actors, directors and producers, two to three years after the show closed, and a year or so after the documentary was released are remarkable frank, candid and revealing. Carol Burnett does contribute (via phone calls) to the commentary track as well. You'll gain even more insight and realize how deep wounds go by re-watching the film with it's invaluable commentary.

The movie is very good. The DVD package is remarkable.

Chris Jarmick Author of The Glass Cocoon with Serena F. Holder - A steamy cyber thriller. Available January 2001. Please order today. Thank You.

Summary of Moon over Broadway

Like Pennebaker's cinéma vérité masterworks, the filmmakers do not impose themselves on the proceedings. There is no narration. The cameras record the process, from the introductory press conference to the anxious anticipation of the opening night reviews.

The play's director, Tom Moore, certainly has his hands full. Ludwig (who hit it big with the play Lend Me a Tenor) bemoans what the actors are doing to his words. "It's like a pact with the devil, having to cast stars," he complains. He must massage the actors' egos (the play's ingenue dislikes the picture of herself displayed outside the theater) and assuage their insecurities. Observe how he deftly and delicately reins in Burnett, who initially falls back on shtick to get a laugh. In one tense moment, Philip Bosco, Burnett's esteemed costar, becomes flustered when he believes his input is not appreciated. "Don't you want the benefit of our years of experience, of our sense of comedy?" he demands of Moore. Moon over Broadway is just the ticket for theater buffs. --Donald Liebenson