“You’re gonna make it after all…”
Most women grew up watching Mary Tyler Moore as Laura Petrie on THE DICK VAN DYKE SHOW and as Mary Richards from THE Mary TYLER MOORE SHOW. She was America’s sweetheart for decades. She could dance, make you laugh, and sing. But what was it really like BEING MARY TYLER MOORE? This was the premise behind this informative and thoroughly entertaining documentary.
Mary Tyler Moore baffled those around her. She was the consummate professional. She was outgoing, kind, prepared, and always had that fabulous smile on her face. She would never let those around her see what she felt inside. Some called her an “ice princess” because few could crack her veneer. She was a people pleaser, filled with self-doubt and insecurities. Hard to believe what we saw on screen wasn’t always the true picture. Mary was one of the forces behind the women’s movement that encouraged change for women everywhere. She had no idea during those early years how powerful her voice would become for working women, especially for the Children’s Diabetes organization. In her lifetime, she helped raise two billion dollars for research. This is in addition to her many Emmy awards, her Tony, and an Oscar nomination for Best Actress in ORDINARY PEOPLE. She was simply incredible.
BEING MARY TYLER MOORE showcased the “survivor” side of Mary. Her determination, tenacity, and sheer talent made her a star and a legend. This was done through interviews with well-known journalists, family, friends, and colleagues within the entertainment field. Clips of her past work also added to the enormity of all she had accomplished. But most compelling was hearing Mary’s thoughts and opinions throughout her career. The stars in the sky surely did line up the day she was born.
BEING MARY TYLER MOORE was a trip down memory lane. And who doesn’t enjoy looking back occasionally? If you are a fan, you will love every moment.
It is available to stream on MAX.