Review: Unfiltered 'Lucy And Desi' an Emotional Dive Into Two Time-Honored Personalities

The documentary "Lucy and Desi" takes an extraordinarily unfiltered look at two Hollywood icons, from their humble beginning to their rise in Hollywood, recounting their drive, ambition, and mutual devotion.

A kind of companion piece to another Amazon project – Aaron Sorkin's critically acclaimed biopic "Being the Ricardos," starring Nicole Kidman and Javier Bardem – this Amy Poehler-directed doc features perspectives from the people that knew Lucy and Desi the best, including their children Lucie Arnaz Luckinbill and Desi Arnaz Jr. We also hear stories from some of those who benefited from the path Lucy and Desi paved for them: Talented folks like Carol Burnett, Bette Midler, and Norman Lear. This is, perhaps, the first unvarnished look at their legacy, and how they changed the industry they both loved.

"I Love Lucy" was the most beloved television comedy of any generation. Starring Lucille Ball and Desi Arnez, the show is a national treasure; its DNA is in every sitcom that followed, pioneering the multi-camera set-up that would shoot in front of a live audience. It's an innovation that illustrates how Lucy and Desi had a vision for Hollywood and their place in the industry.

Their real-life story reflects many issues that still, unfortunately, impact our culture today. Lucy was always a talented and formidable personality who excited her creativity further by learning the ins and outs of every aspect of a film set, while Desi challenged the stereotypes of immigrants and the societal expectations of a Cuban band leader. Both were much more than just pretty faces, and they were on an inevitable trajectory that would set them apart from anyone in the business.

"Lucy and Desi" traces their humble beginnings, documenting how each of them dedicated themselves in their younger years to providing for their families while pursuing their artistic passions. When they finally met and married, it took nearly a decade for them to begin to work at their marriage; ultimately, the pair emerged a power couple the likes of which Hollywood had never seen. Their success hinged on their belief in one another; each was the other's biggest fan. But, as with any high-profile couple, success also brought its pitfalls.

The documentary is emotionally and intellectually unlike any other look into the lives of these two time-honored personalities. Poehler remains respectful of the couple, while still revealing many of their most intimate moments. What "Lucy and Desi" had was magical, and here is another opportunity to fall under their spell.

"Lucy and Desi" premieres exclusively on Amazon Prime, Friday, March 4.