During the making of Man on the Moon (1999), Milos Forman’s film about the legendary comedian Andy Kaufman, a lot of footage captured Jim Carrey’s stubborn and crazy efforts to stay in character, both as Andy and his alter ego Tony Clifton, off camera. The whole experience tried Forman’s patience severely, along with that of many other people involved – but it also became a baptism of fire for Carrey who’s always struggled with the question of who he really is. This almost 20-year-old footage is alternated with an interview with the star who gives us some insight into his life, state of mind and what acting means as a form of art. Kaufman’s spirit hangs over the proceedings; interesting, especially the talk with Carrey, but the footage also emphasizes the exhaustive nature of the project.
2017-U.S. 94 min. Color. Directed by Chris Smith. Featuring Jim Carrey.
Trivia: Co-produced by Spike Jonze. Originally shown at the Venice film festival, then released on Netflix.
