Excitement is brewing in the film community as Kino Lorber and Zeitgeist Films have secured North American distribution rights for the documentary *Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story*. This insightful film chronicles the tumultuous yet triumphant life of Liza Minnelli, particularly highlighting her illustrious career during the pivotal 1970s. The documentary, produced by Atlas Media, first dazzled audiences at the Tribeca Film Festival last summer, followed by successful screenings at several renowned film festivals, including the Hamptons Film Festival and Provincetown Film Festival.
With a theatrical release planned for early 2025 at the IFC Center, followed by a national rollout, *Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story* aims to reach a wide audience. The deal, negotiated by Emily Russo and Nancy Gerstman of Zeitgeist Films along with Isadora Johnson of Cinetic, emphasizes the importance of a theatrical experience, although it notably excludes broadcast rights. Their focus on cinema indicates a commitment to creating a shared space for audiences to engage with Minnelli’s captivating narrative fully.
The documentary dives deeply into the layered complexities of Minnelli’s life after the unexpected passing of her mother, Judy Garland. The 1970s were filled with personal and professional challenges, as Liza sought to forge her own identity in the entertainment world. This period not only accentuates her resilience but showcases how she leaned on significant mentors like Kay Thompson and Bob Fosse. The inclusion of these relationships adds a rich texture to the storytelling, allowing audiences to see how collaborative efforts shaped her legendary status.
Alongside archival footage, the documentary features commentary from iconic personalities such as Michael Feinstein and Mia Farrow, painting an intimate portrait of Minnelli’s influence on and relationships with her peers. The interactive nature of the documentary, with voices from both Liza’s past and present, enables viewers to appreciate her multifaceted contributions to the arts. Russo and Gerstman’s enthusiasm about the film being “a huge crowd pleaser” resonates with the expectation that it will capture the hearts of longtime fans and possibly inspire a new generation to appreciate Minnelli’s artistry.
In creating *Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story*, director Bruce David Klein seeks to encapsulate the admiration and respect surrounding Liza Minnelli as both a performer and a person. The documentary promises not only to entertain but to educate viewers about the struggles and victories of one of the entertainment industry’s most remarkable figures. As anticipation builds for its theatrical release, there is no doubt that this film will serve as a powerful homage to Minnelli’s enduring legacy.