Steve Martin, the iconic comedian, actor, and writer, recently opened up about his illustrious career and the new documentary chronicling his life, “Steve! (Martin): A Documentary in Two Pieces.” The documentary, now streaming on Apple TV+, delves deep into Martin’s journey from a young magician at Disneyland to a comedy legend and beyond.
Martin’s influence on comedy is undeniable. His innovative approach in the 1970s, which moved beyond traditional punchlines, paved the way for modern comedic styles. This influence is evident in contemporary works like Seth McFarlane’s “Family Guy.” Martin’s memoir, “Born Standing Up,” offers a detailed look into his creative process, emphasizing the importance of being exceptionally good at one’s craft. His philosophy, “Be so good they can’t ignore you,” resonates deeply, highlighting the importance of excellence over shortcuts.
The documentary, directed by Oscar-winner Morgan Neville, is a comprehensive exploration of Martin’s life. Spanning over three hours, it is divided into two parts. The first part focuses on Martin’s stand-up career, starting from his childhood and culminating in his decision to leave stand-up in 1980. The second part covers his movie career, personal life, and his recent collaborations with Martin Short.
Martin’s early life was marked by a strained relationship with his father, which fueled his drive for approval and success. Despite appearing as an overnight sensation in the mid-70s, Martin had been honing his craft for a decade. His relentless pursuit of innovation and understanding of comedy set him apart from his peers.
The documentary’s first part is a narrative journey through Martin’s rise in stand-up comedy. It showcases his unique style, which avoided political material and instead embraced a surreal, silly approach. This style provided a much-needed escape for audiences during America’s post-Nixonian era. The second part of the documentary is more introspective, exploring Martin’s personal growth, relationships, and his current life.
One of the most touching moments in the documentary is Martin’s reflection on his collaboration with John Candy in “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.” Martin’s emotional recounting of a cut monologue from Candy’s character reveals the depth of their bond and the impact of their work together.
Despite his success in movies, Martin eventually lost interest in filmmaking. However, the documentary highlights the joy and satisfaction he has found in his second marriage and late parenthood. His conversations with Jerry Seinfeld in the documentary reveal a contentment and happiness that Martin has achieved in his later years.
The documentary also sheds light on Martin’s passion for art collecting. His favorite painting, “Captain Upton’s House” by Edward Hopper, initially seemed like a symbol of loneliness but later represented hope and life. This metaphor reflects Martin’s journey from a young, struggling artist to a content and fulfilled individual.
Throughout the documentary, Martin’s introspective nature and his quest for excellence are evident. His ability to innovate and stay focused on his craft has been the cornerstone of his success. The documentary is not just a celebration of Martin’s career but also a testament to his personal growth and resilience.
For fans of Steve Martin and comedy enthusiasts, “Steve! (Martin): A Documentary in Two Pieces” is a must-watch. It offers a rare glimpse into the life of a comedy legend, his struggles, triumphs, and the wisdom he has gained over the years. The documentary is a fitting tribute to a man who has brought joy and laughter to millions, and it serves as an inspiration for anyone striving to excel in their field.
