Watch The Life of Reilly

The Life of Reilly is a captivating one-man-show style documentary that chronicles the life story of Charles Nelson Reilly, a multi-faceted American actor, comedian, director, and drama teacher. Released in 2006, the film is an adaptation of his acclaimed autobiographical stage show, "Save It for the Stage: The Life of Reilly," and offers a poignant, humorous, and deeply personal look at Reilly's life and career.

Directed by Barry Poltermann and Frank L. Anderson, The Life of Reilly is much more than a simple recording of a theater performance. It's a cinematic experience that utilizes the intimacy of cinema to enhance Reilly's engaging storytelling. Throughout the feature-length film, Reilly stands alone on stage, sharing his memories and reflections in front of an audience, yet the direction and editing manage to create a closeness that provides viewers with a sense of private conversation with the man himself.

Born in The Bronx, New York, in 1931, Charles Nelson Reilly had a difficult childhood, which he discusses openly in the film. He touches on themes of overcoming adversity, dealing with family complications, and confronting the challenges of growing up during difficult times. Despite the obstacles he faced as a child, including a life-changing experience with the Hartford Circus Fire in 1944, Reilly found solace and passion in the world of entertainment.

In The Life of Reilly, audience members can expect to hear tales from the actor's early aspirations, including his tenacity in chasing his dreams and his commitment to his craft. The film delves into his journey of becoming an actor, his experiences in acting school, and the pivotal moments that led to his successful career on Broadway, where he earned a Tony Award for his performance in "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying."

Reilly shares anecdotes from both his professional and personal life with wit and authenticity. The film also highlights the challenges he faced as a gay man during a time when homosexuality was largely taboo, especially in the entertainment industry. Reilly's anecdotes serve as a powerful commentary on the social and cultural shifts that have occurred over the years.

One of the remarkable aspects of The Life of Reilly is the performer's ability to weave humor into even the most serious topics. His infectious charisma and comedic timing make for a delightful watch, as he regales the audience with stories of his encounters with iconic figures in the arts, his behind-the-scenes experiences on television and film sets, and his insights into the world of fame and celebrity.

Reilly's extensive career in television is another focal point of the film. He discusses his roles on various popular TV shows and his recurring appearances as a panelist on game shows such as "Match Game," which made him a household name. The Life of Reilly captures the energy and magnetism that made him a beloved figure on the small screen.

The documentary is also a testament to Reilly's later work as a respected and influential drama teacher. He reflects on his experiences as an instructor, sharing his philosophies on acting and the impact he had on helping to shape the talents of future generations of performers.

Beyond the storytelling, The Life of Reilly is an exploration of the human condition. The film is a rich tapestry that highlights the performer's resilience, his ability to find humor in hardship, and his enduring optimism. It serves not only as an homage to his lifetime of work but also as an inspiring tale of a man who lived life fully, embraced his quirks, and left a lasting legacy on the stage and screen.

Despite its singular focus on Reilly, the film never feels limiting or one-dimensional. Charles Nelson Reilly's life story is presented with such vibrancy and depth that it transcends the format of a one-man show and becomes a universal story of triumph, tenacity, and the power of laughter. For those who remember Reilly from his varied work over the decades, as well as for those discovering him for the first time, The Life of Reilly offers a compelling, funny, and ultimately touching portrait of a truly unique entertainer and human being.