Zelig

Woody Allen in one of his many incarnations in Zelig

My Woody Allen catch up continues and if it weren't for the fact that his films are generally excellent, it would be a daunting prospect trying to delve through his filmography. Allen churns out a film nearly every year and the upcoming Casandra's Dream will be his 37th theatrical release. I'm still only scratching the surface.

In Zelig, Allen delves into the realm of faux documentary. This 1983 release was not the first time a director had wandered into that territory - it started in the 50s on TV and moved into film in the 70s, but I'm not sure I'll find a better or funnier example of what is now known as the 'mockumentary' (and yes I have seen Spinal Tap.)

The documentary tells us about the life of a great American hero known as Zelig. Zelig, played by Allen, defied medical science with his unique ability to fit in with whomever was surrounding him. Not only could Zelig act like his peers, he started to look like them as well. So when surrounded by some overweight gentleman, Zelig gained 80 pounds, when surrounded by Greeks, he grew a hairy moustache and when surrounded by Indians he... well this was the result:

Allen really has gone to town on the documentary feel of the picture. There's actually surprisingly little footage involved here. A lot of the film is told through newspaper headlines and photographs. To this end the editing is brilliant and manages to keep you glued to the screen despite long stretches without moving film. Of course that's only possible due to the wonderful narration written by Allen. This is a screenplay that makes you feel totally inadequate about anything you've ever attempted to write. It's blisteringly funny, wonderfully inventive and very very clever. This look at the life of Zelig only takes 70 odd minutes but every one of them is delightful. A word too about the cinematography which is first rate. Gordon Willis totally captures the documentary feel. The "archive footage" is exactly how genuine archive footage appears and is brilliantly contrast with the modern day interviews. Next up is Broadway Danny Rose. Looking forward to it already.

Thoroughly recommended.

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