The Kid Stays in the Picture

The Kid Stays in the Picture is a captivating 2002 documentary about the rise, fall and resurgence of one of the most influential figures in Hollywood, Robert Evans. Directed by Nanette Burstein and Brett Morgen, this film is primarily based on the 1994 autobiography of Evans and named after a famous line of dialogue from The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway. Boasting interesting visuals and masterful storytelling, the film captures a genuine, behind-the-scenes portrait of Hollywood and gives audiences insight into the wild life and career of its prominent persona.

The film is narrated by Robert Evans himself and begins with an exploration of his early life. Raised in New York, Evans began as a successful clothing manufacturer, had a short and unremarkable acting career, and eventually made his way into film production. A chance encounter at a swimming pool led to his being cast in a movie, launching his incredible journey in the entertainment industry. The insight shared in this documentary comes from a man with an insider’s perspective, who lived through the Golden Age of Hollywood and remained relevant even years after.

The Kid Stays in the Picture primarily uses archive footage, photographs, and never-before-seen film clips to draw audiences into Evans's world. It gives an insider's view to some of the most successful films of the late 20th century, including blockbusters like The Godfather, Rosemary’s Baby, and Love Story, all of which Evans was integral in bringing to the big screen in his career as Paramount's head of production. The film beautifully intertwines these successes with the turmoil of Evans's personal life, showcasing the highs and lows of his journey in an engaging, unbiased manner.

Eddie Albert and Peter Bart, who also brought dimensions to the narrative, starred alongside Evans. Albert, a dear friend and neighbor of Evans, provides context and color to the latter's experiences. Bart, a former executive at Paramount Pictures and editor of Variety, offers his perspective on the business aspects of the film industry.

What makes The Kid Stays in the Picture exceptional is its frankness about the darker side of Hollywood. A good portion of the documentary focuses on Evans's downfall – from a cocaine bust to an implication in a murder case, to his divorce from his third wife – and his struggle to rebuild his career. This results in an honest and engaging tale about the cyclical nature of fame, success, downfall, and redemption, as well as a reflection on the intrinsic nature of the film industry.

Evans's narration throughout the film imbues his life story with a particular poignancy. It's a stark reminder that the glitz and glamour of Hollywood often mask darker individual narratives. His voice guides viewers through the labyrinth of his life, filled with incredible highs, demoralizing lows, and the lessons learned along the way. Yet, through it all, he maintains an air of resilience that embodies his comeback mentality, personifying his famous quip, "There are three sides to every story: My side, your side, and the truth. And no one is lying."

There's much to admire about the documentary. Its content is seamlessly edited, the visual storytelling is engaging, and the pace is just right, allowing the audience to absorb the information without overwhelming them. However, the star of the show is undoubtedly the dynamic character of Evans himself. Love him or loathe him, it's impossible not to get engrossed in his outrageous tales and his relentless determination.

Throughout watching The Kid Stays in the Picture, we get to see inside the world of one of Hollywood's most flamboyant and resilient characters. It's a story unique to Evans but also a snapshot of a particular time in Hollywood. The film, in a broader sense, illustrates the transient nature of success and the critical importance of perseverance in such a challenging industry. With Evans as the relatable and charismatic guide, viewers gain a profound understanding of not only the man he was, but also the industry and era he inhabited.

In conclusion, The Kid Stays in the Picture is a must-watch for film enthusiasts fascinated by the workings of the entertainment industry. It serves up the grit and grind behind Hollywood's glossy veneer through the riveting life story of one of its most vibrant unsung heroes, Robert Evans – a visionary who fell from grace but never lost sight of his passions. It's a tale that's dramatic, humorous, and sometimes tragic, reflecting the universal human experience, as told in the unique context of Hollywood's glitz and glamour.