Every Act of Life

Every Act of Life: A Lively Look at Artistic Genius

Every Act of Life is a 2018 biographical documentary that illuminates the life, career, and immeasurable contributions to theater and culture by award-winning playwright and activist Terrence McNally. Director Jeff Kaufman assembles a breath-taking cast, including F. Murray Abraham, Lynn Ahrens, and Jon Robin Baitz, among others, to narrate and reflect upon McNally's journey. The movie, while profoundly insightful, is also entertaining and full of heart and humor.

The documentary is an absorbing tribute to one of the greatest contemporary playwrights of our time, Terrence McNally. Known for his significant contributions to Broadway and the American theater, McNally's work touches on vital topics such as sex, homophobia, love, and AIDS. He was once described as a "bard of American theater," and Every Act of Life paints a revealing portrait of the man behind the commendation.

F. Murray Abraham leads the talented pack of actors, indulging the audience with his personal encounters and experiences working with the legendary playwright, detailed with passion and admiration. He, along with other Broadway veterans, reflects on the talent and genius of McNally, who sadly passed away in 2020.

Next to him, we see Lynn Ahrens, who brings life to her experiences working with McNally in the world of theatre. She shares vivid accounts of McNally’s approach to his craft — his dedication and commitment to every word, every act, symbolizing the eponymous 'Every Act of Life.' She also wittingly presents anecdotes of McNally, reminding us of the man beyond his works.

Added to this is Jon Robin Baitz's thoughtful perspective, detailing the influence of McNally’s creations on the world of American theater and on the lives of the LGBTQ+ community. Baitz adeptly displays how McNally used theater as a catalyst for change at a time when it was notoriously shunned, thereby cementing his legacy as a pioneering figure of gay literature.

Every Act of Life, while explores McNally's rich collection of achievements, does not shy away from exploring his personal life with equal depth and sensitivity. The film strikes a balance between his public genius and private struggles, portraying him as a flawed yet endearing character. The movie also digs into his relationships, notably with his long-term partner, Thomas Kirdahy, showcasing that McNally’s life was as dramatic and intense as his plays.

As a documentary, Every Act of Life does not settle for a simple chronological narration. Instead, it weaves a rich tapestry of interviews, archival footage, readings from McNally's significant works, and dramatized scenes, making it an educational yet enjoyable experience for the audience. You get to see glimpses of 60 years of American theater, from the golden eras of the '60s and '70s to the present day, all of it told through McNally's experiences and perspectives.

The director, Jeff Kaufman, should be commended for creating a documentary that is as exciting as it is enriching. His meticulous excavating of McNally's legacy shows the deep appreciation and understanding he possesses for his subject. Its exclusive access into McNally's life is a real treat for theatre enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

Even for those unfamiliar with Terrence McNally's work, Every Act of Life introduces them to a fabulous world of drama and sentiment, making this documentary as engaging as it is informative. It provides a captivating blend of culture, art, history, and human emotions, grabbing the attention of anyone who wishes to know more about the man who, in many ways, shaped the essence of contemporary American theater.

In conclusion, Every Act of Life is an artful and profound biographical journey, one that shines a spotlight on Terrence McNally's remarkable life and body of works. Inviting the audience into McNally's world allows spectators not only to understand him better but to appreciate the hardships and triumphs he encountered throughout his life. This film commemorates not only a profound artist, but also a gay rights activist, a survivor of the AIDS epidemic, a symbol of resilience, a lover, and a friend. It stands tall as an enduring tribute to an incredible man and his equally noteworthy career.