Review of The Kid Stays in the Picture (2002) by Aaron A — 25 Jan 2011

"There are three sides to every story: Your side, my side, and the truth. And no one is lying. Memories shared serve each differently.".

Based on the 1994 autobiography of film producer Robert Evans, this documentary follows Evans's career as he went from fresh-faced clothing executive to Hollywood actor to Paramount executive to legendary producer.

At first the audience might be put off by the fact that there isn't all that much video footage; as a good percentage of the film is told via voice over in front of a slideshow of still pictures. However, once the audience gets past this fact, they will find a very interesting and romantic film. The film is a rags to riches type, a true american dream come true.

Besides the obvious entertainment value of a rags to riches tale; the film also provides facts that perhaps the average movie fan would otherwise miss. Robert Evans was apparently involved in some very big films, such as The Godfather parts 1 & 2, and Chinatown, and was also a major player in the hollywood industry for many decades; yet without this film I would be completely oblivious to the fact.

With some great insight into the business side of Hollywood, an interesting version of the american dream, and no significant flaws, The Kid Stays in the Picture is an easy recommendation.