Watch Ham: A Musical Memoir

"Ham: A Musical Memoir" is a heartfelt and inspiring musical journey that follows the life of Sam Harris, a Tony Award-winning Broadway star and recording artist. Directed by Andrew Putschoegl, the film is based on Harris' one-man-show of the same name, which premiered in Los Angeles in 2015. The film takes the form of a concert performance, as Harris shares his life story and performs some of his most memorable songs in front of a live audience. Accompanied by Todd Schroeder on piano, Harris engages the audience with his witty commentary and candid storytelling, taking them on an emotional rollercoaster ride that covers everything from his troubled childhood to his rise to fame in the entertainment industry.

The film starts with Harris' childhood in Oklahoma, where he faced discrimination and abuse as a gay child in a conservative family. He talks about how he was often bullied in school and struggled to find acceptance and love from his parents. Despite the challenges he faced, Harris discovered his passion for music at a young age and started performing in local theater productions.

As Harris grows up, he moves to New York City and starts pursuing his dream of becoming a performer. He talks about the ups and downs of his early career, from getting rejected at auditions to landing his first Broadway role in "The Life." Harris also shares how he struggled with drug addiction and depression during this time, and how he eventually found the strength to get sober and turn his life around.

The film features some of Harris' most beloved songs, including "Over the Rainbow" and "The Wind Beneath My Wings." Harris also performs original songs that he wrote for the show, which are deeply personal and heartfelt. His powerful vocals and emotional delivery make each song a gripping performance that resonates with the audience.

Throughout the film, Harris uses humor and wit to lighten the mood and connect with the audience. He talks about his various celebrity encounters, including meeting Madonna and working with Liza Minnelli. He also shares funny anecdotes about his life, from accidentally peeing on Bernadette Peters' shoe to trying on Cher's wig.

Despite the lighthearted moments, the film also tackles some heavy topics, such as Harris' struggles with mental health and addiction, and his journey to find self-acceptance as a gay man. Harris' vulnerability and honesty in sharing these personal stories make the film a powerful and moving experience.

In addition to Harris' captivating performance, the film also features behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with Harris, Schroeder, and other members of the production team. These interviews provide insight into the creative process behind the show and shed light on the challenges of bringing a one-man production to the stage.

Overall, "Ham: A Musical Memoir" is a touching and entertaining tribute to the life and career of Sam Harris. Through his music and storytelling, Harris shares his triumphs and struggles with the audience, leaving them inspired and uplifted. The film is a must-see for any theater lover or fan of Sam Harris' music.

Ham: A Musical Memoir is a 2019 comedy. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.7.