#95. Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work - Review

Joan Rivers A Piece of Work film poster

Who would have thought a documentary about a comedienne that I can’t stand would be so entertaining. Joan Rivers has made a career out of annoying me. Her bits were usually mean and gossipy, concerned with berating celebrities on the “red carpet” and judging everything from their shoes to their sex-life. Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work does a great job showcasing the woman I never saw on her E channel specials. With much humility and humanity, Rivers (and at times her equally irritating daughter Melissa) gives a rare glimpse into her world. Her pressures are varied, but are mostly concerned with two subjects: finance and/or ego. You see, no on of any substance is knocking on Joan Rivers’ door anymore. The once queen of crass is left with small comedy clubs and a lot of bills. People rely on her making money, she is aware of her responsibilities. The documentary takes on an almost inspiring tone when Rivers takes it upon herself to get back into the spotlight. She produces a one-woman-show that she also stars in, and even with her many let downs and failures, the 75-year-old showbiz antique keeps her head up. This doc is fun and funny, and a humbling example of how Hollywood will take everything from you and leave you asking for more.