Watch Public Speaking

Public Speaking is a documentary film released in 2010 directed by Martin Scorsese which provides a captivating insight into the life and career of the celebrated and fascinating personality of Fran Lebowitz, a writer, public speaker, social commentator and quintessential New Yorker. The film features a series of interviews with Fran Lebowitz as well as providing an opportunity for audiences to witness her unique and captivating public speaking style. Lebowitz provides a no-holds-barred commentary on a range of topics, from politics and culture to her personal experiences growing up in New York City.

Throughout the film, Lebowitz shares her personal observations and unique perspective on life in New York City, offering an insider’s view of the city recognizable to anyone who has ever spent time there. Her razor-sharp wit and trenchant observations on issues such as class, gender, and sexuality make for a compelling viewing experience.

The film also includes clips and interviews with other cultural icons such as Truman Capote, William F. Buckley, and James Baldwin, who provide their own unique take on the various topics discussed throughout the film. The inclusion of these interviews adds depth and texture to the film and offers a valuable historical context for Lebowitz’s work.

One of the standout moments of Public Speaking is an extended interview with Fran Lebowitz in which she discusses the impact of technology on human communication. Her comments on this topic are particularly prescient in today's world, where the digital age has radically transformed the way we interact with one another.

Despite its focus on Lebowitz's career, the film is not a straightforward biographical documentary. Instead, it presents her story through fragments, emphasizing her unique perspective and style. The film is a study of her character rather than a traditional narrative, and this approach suits her perfectly. Lebowitz’s persona is one of the great achievements of the film, as we see her navigate her public and private life with equal measures of wit, vulnerability and intelligence.

Overall, Public Speaking is an engaging, thought-provoking and entertaining documentary that sheds light on the life and personality of one of the most fascinating figures in American culture, offering a unique window into New York City's cultural scene over the past few decades. For anyone interested in the power of language and its impact on our lives, this film is a must-watch.