Thank You Very Much (film)

Thank You Very Much is a 2023 documentary film directed by Alex Braverman. A portrait of Andy Kaufman's personal life and career, it premiered at the 80th edition of the Venice Film Festival.

Thank You Very Much
Directed byAlex Braverman
CinematographyBrandon Somerhalder
Jeremy Leach
Edited byAlan Lowe
Jarad Jeter
Music byChristopher Bear
Production
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Distributed byDrafthouse Films
Release date
  • 31 August 2023 (2023-08-31) (Venice)

Synopsis

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The film analyzes both Andy Kaufman's career and life in a non-strictly linear structure,[1] with rare and never-before-seen footage,[2] and also investigates his life events and choices from a psychological perspective.[1][3] Interwees in the film include longtime collaborator Bob Zmuda, romantic partner Lynne Margulies, and actors Steve Martin, Danny DeVito, and Marilu Henner.[1]

Production

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Braveman decided to make the documentary after he got possession of some unreleased archival material about Kaufman, and felt 'there was still a bigger story to tell' about him.[4] The film was co-produced by Safdie brothers and Morgan Neville.[4]

Release

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The film had its world premiere at the 80th Venice International Film Festival in the Venice Classics sidebar, where it was awarded best documentary film.[5] It was the second documentary to be screened at the Venice Festival after Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond, which premiered at the 74th Venice International Film Festival.[6] In September 2024, Drafthouse Films acquired distribution rights to the film.[7]

Reception

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On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 100% of 6 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 7.50/10.[8]

References

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  1. ^ a b c Fienberg, Daniel (31 August 2023). "'Thank You Very Much' Review: An Andy Kaufman Doc That Errs on the Side of Over-Explanation". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved 8 June 2024.
  2. ^ Perez, Rodrigo (1 September 2024). "'Thank You Very Much' Review: Gonzo Comedian Andy Kaufman' Is Finally Understood & Yet Remains An Enigma [Telluride]". theplaylist.net. Retrieved 8 June 2024.
  3. ^ Zilko, Christian (31 August 2023). "'Thank You Very Much' Review: Andy Kaufman Doc Is a Conventional Tribute to Artist Who Loathed Convention". IndieWire. Retrieved 8 June 2024.
  4. ^ a b Wray, Daniel Dylan (17 April 2024). ""I Cry Every Time": Josh Safdie on the Legacy of Comedian Andy Kaufman". Another Magazine. Retrieved 8 June 2024.
  5. ^ Lattanzio, Ryan (9 September 2023). "'Poor Things' Wins Venice Film Festival Golden Lion — See All the Winners Here". IndieWire. Retrieved 8 June 2024.
  6. ^ Gleiberman, Owen (31 August 2023). "'Thank You Very Much' Review: A Documentary Chronicles the Life and Career of Andy Kaufman — but More Than That, It Understands Him". Variety. Retrieved 8 June 2024.
  7. ^ Carey, Matthew (September 25, 2024). "Drafthouse Films Acquires Andy Kaufman Documentary 'Thank You Very Much,' Penetrating Look Into "The Most Thrilling, Enigmatic Performer"". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved September 25, 2024.
  8. ^ "Thank You Very Much". Rotten Tomatoes. Retrieved 8 June 2024.
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