Frank Sinatra: The Man and the Myth

This near-hagiographic documentary about Ol' Blue Eyes, which definitely emphasizes the second aspect of the subtitle rather than the first, is less compelling than a typical A&E Biography episode. Sinatra was a popular icon for decades and an immensely influential artist, but he was also a person whose private life and political activities generated controversy as well as admiration. On the basis of this sketchy, reverential account, however, a viewer would come away with little understanding or appreciation of his complex character, as flaws and personal problems are either airbrushed away or quickly passed over. At the same time, those identified as having been disloyal to him are very roughly treated--the Kennedys, for instance, are the subject of what can only be described as a real hatchet job, and even a lightweight like Peter Lawford is heavily scorned. Criticism of Sinatra, including what's described as the unfair accusation of serious mob connections, is traced to pervasive anti-Italian prejudice, which is a running subtext throughout (italicized by the use of Italian opera themes as near-constant background music). While this profile may satisfy someone looking for a simplistic tribute to Sinatra (and the newsreel footage is of intrinsic interest), anybody searching for more than a surface treatment of a legendary entertainer would be advised to look elsewhere. Not recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)