Marvin Hamlisch: What He Did for Love

Popular composer and music prodigy Marvin Hamlisch (1944-2012) heard music in everyday sounds, whether it was the wind rustling through trees or the knocking at a door. Although trained in classical music, Hamlisch was drawn to popular songs and Broadway musicals. Dori Berinstein's PBS-aired American Masters tribute describes the life and career of the "ultimate chameleon," whose only constant was to "make it Marvin." At an early age, Hamlisch secured a gig as a rehearsal pianist for Funny Girl, where he formed a lifelong personal and professional friendship with Barbra Streisand. In short order he won three Oscars for one year (1973: two for The Way We Were and one for The Sting, which renewed the popularity of ragtime music). Hamlisch quickly went on to collaborate on the landmark musical A Chorus Line (which helped revitalize a sagging Broadway in the 1970s). With such amazing early success, some wondered if Hamlisch had peaked too soon. After the death of Chorus Line choreographer Michael Bennett, Hamlisch sometimes had problems finding compatible musical partners. Fortunately, he could always fall back on performing: a natural stage presence, Hamlisch loved chatting up and entertaining his audience. In numerous archival film clips and interviews here, Hamlisch describes his efforts to find a balance in his personal and professional life, which was fortunately resolved later in life when he enjoyed a happy marriage. Streisand, Carole King, Quincy Jones, Christopher Walken, the composer's wife, and many friends describe the man as the "ultimate mensch," never too busy to support a colleague or community symphony orchestra. Also featuring home movies and clips from the composer's memorial service, this biographical portrait serves up a fine appreciation of a prodigy who left us all too soon. DVD extras include bonus footage, and “making-of” recordings from A Chorus Line. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees)