Now Streaming: Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story

As the new documentary about Liza Minnelli proclaims, “she has achieved the rare status where only a first name is necessary.” Directed by Bruce David Klein, Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story is an intimate look at the star’s complex life following the death of her mother, Judy Garland, and the success of her Oscar-winning performance in Cabaret. Piecing together archival footage, performance clips, and stills, the documentary is a dazzling tribute to the EGOT winner’s life and career. But it’s the film’s interviews, both with Minnelli herself and with her community of mentors and colleagues, that really dive deep into her remarkable story.

The film starts with Minnelli’s complicated relationship with her mother and then surrogate mother Kay Thompson, a performer and author of the Eloise children’s books. There’s lyricist Fred Ebb and composer John Kander, who co-wrote the musical Flora and the Red Menace, which won Minnelli her first Tony award. The film also features French singer Charles Aznavour, who influenced Minnelli’s singing prowess, Mia Farrow, Minnelli’s lifelong friend, and, of course, Bob Fosse, who directed the star as the iconic Sally Bowles in Cabaret. 

Through these insightful interviews, as well as Minnelli’s own colorful accounts, viewers get a never-before-seen glimpse into the strength, talent, and vulnerability that makes her the one and only Liza. 

Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story by Bruce David Klein is now streaming on Kino Film Collection.