The documentary about Joan Rivers is a real piece of work, but in a good way. It is a unique documentation of a woman and comedian I knew little about and it seemed as though Rivers was taking an inside look at her own life as much as the people behind the camera. I've only seen Rivers on Letterman and, while not offended by her vulgar jokes and politically-incorrect puns, never really understood why she went that route to try to be funny.
Now, I do. Because, as Rivers said on camera in A Piece of Work, it's comedy and she's actually not out to offend anyone, just make them laugh. And often times Rivers is poking fun at herself with jokes about age and plastic surgery. I feel audiences shouldn't criticize, which they do when it comes to Rivers, someone who is willing to take it as well as dish it out.
If you're unsure about going to one of Rivers' comedy shows, just watch this documentary first. It may not be for everyone, and I don't know if I'd ever go, but Rivers leaves no surprises for her fans.What I liked most about the documentary was its peek into Rivers' career upbringing, from the Johnny Carson show to the ups and downs of launching her own performance empire. It doesn't always work and Rivers talks candidly about her fear of not being on stage one day with a blank calendar, which she shows the camera early in the documentary.
Overall, I appreciated Rivers' candor and watching a documentary that the subject wanted to be a part of as much as its creators. Rivers said she is living her dream and will keep on doing it forever. Love her or hate her, I believe her.
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