Liza with a “Z”: Collector's Edition

The TV special Liza with a "Z" not only earned four Emmys and a Peabody Award back in 1972, but its soundtrack album also went on to win a Grammy. Surprisingly, this Bob Fosse-directed "concert for television" went unseen for more than 30 years, while its star spent more time in the tabloids than onstage. To those who know little of Ms. Minnelli beyond her public image, this incredible performance, with one showstopper after another, will be a revelation. Like the mythical Elsie she sings of in "Cabaret," Minnelli's name these days tends to produce a snicker (and, as the song goes, "well, that's what comes from too much pills and liquor"). But Liza with a “Z”, created by Fosse and songwriter Fred Ebb, is a crowning achievement in her tumultuous career, produced when she was 26 and fresh from her Oscar-winning performance in the movie version of Cabaret. Here she comes across as the hardest-working woman in show business, defying the performer's maxim to "never let them see you sweat," holding nothing back physically or emotionally. Highlights include the heartbreaking "You've Let Yourself Go,” some solid standards ("God Bless the Child," "Bye Bye Blackbird," "My Mammy") and specialty numbers (including the title tune). Overall, Minnelli is never less than mesmerizing, even in an ill-conceived camp-tastic rendition of Joe Tex's "I Gotcha," complete with two mustachioed, cigarette-smoking dancers. Yes, the costumes and musical arrangements are pure ‘70s, but the climactic Cabaret medley is one for the ages. Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1, extras include a bonus audio CD, commentary by Minnelli, an A&E Biography episode on Minnelli, and interviews. Recommended. Aud: P. (D. Liebenson)