Watch Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis

Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis is a 2011 documentary film about the legendary and controversial American comedian, actor, filmmaker, and philanthropist, Jerry Lewis. Directed by Australian filmmaker Gregg Barson, the film features interviews with Lewis, archival footage, testimonials from friends and colleagues, and clips from some of his most iconic films, including The Nutty Professor, Cinderfella, and The Bellboy.

Narrated by Alec Baldwin, the documentary chronicles Lewis's life and career, from his humble beginnings as a vaudeville performer to his phenomenal success as a comedian, actor, and director in films, television, and theater. It explores his complex personality, his innovative approach to comedy, his off-camera antics and eccentricities, his relationship with Dean Martin, his struggles with fame, fortune, and addiction, and his enduring influence on comedy and popular culture.

Throughout the film, Lewis speaks candidly about his life, his work, and his legacy, revealing his creative process, his inspirations, and his regrets. He talks about his early days in show business, his collaborations with Martin, his breakthrough roles in The Stooge and The Delicate Delinquent, his innovations in physical comedy and slapstick, his controversial public persona, and his directorial work on films like The Nutty Professor and The King of Comedy.

The documentary also features interviews with some of Lewis's friends, family members, and colleagues, including Richard Belzer, Eddie Murphy, Quentin Tarantino, Carl Reiner, and Jerry Seinfeld. They share their impressions of Lewis's talent, wit, and generosity, as well as his quirks, flaws, and demons. They discuss his charity work for Muscular Dystrophy Association, his influence on contemporary comedians, and his enduring appeal to audiences around the world.

Moreover, the film explores the contradictions and complexities of Lewis's persona, from his reputation as a benevolent philanthropist to his reputation as a tyrannical perfectionist on set. It examines his controversial statements and actions, including his use of racial and gender stereotypes in his comedy, his public feuds with critics and fellow comedians, and his abrupt retirement from performing after a disastrous comeback tour in the 1990s.

Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis ultimately presents a fascinating and insightful portrait of a comedic genius and cultural icon who revolutionized the art of humor in the 20th century. It celebrates Lewis's legacy as a pioneer, a provocateur, and a humanitarian, while acknowledging the complexities and contradictions of his life and work. Whether you are a fan of Lewis's films or a student of comedy history, this documentary is a must-see.

Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 56 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.