Director's Cut
The Life of Reilly
Frank Anderson, director, music, animation
Barry Poltermann, director, editor
If, in 1940, you had a lobotomized aunt, an institutionalized father, a racist mother, and you were the only gay kid on the block, what do you think the odds would be that youd end up a Tony winner, a staple of television, and a generational icon? Enter "The Life of Reilly." The cliché goes that truth is stranger than fiction. In this case, it is also funnier and more heartbreaking. Charles Nelson Reilly, famous for his game show innuendos and "X Files" guest appearances, takes us through his bizarre, star-studded, tragic, hilarious, and ultimately amazing life with a potent blend of tenderness and quick one-liners. "The Life of Reilly" is an adaptation of Mr. Reillys acclaimed one-man show and was photographed for the screen during Mr. Reillys final two performances of his play in North Hollywood, CA.
27:50
Recorded Nov. 18, 2008.