Bright Lights: Debbie and Carrie

BRIGHT LIGHTS, 2016. Funny, witty, charming, sad, tragic - now even more sad and tragic after the deaths of Carrie Fisher and then her mother Debbie Reynolds a day later, it was the main news here in the lull days after Christmas – that and George Michael’s passing …

Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds star in a tender portrait of Hollywood royalty in all its eccentricity. From the red carpet to the back alleys behind it, the documentary is about the bonds of family love, which are beautifully bitter-sweet.

It is a fascinating view now, as we watch an increasingly frail Debbie (and frail Carrie too, endlessly drinking cola and smoking) at their compound with their dogs and friends, as they prepare for a show and Debbie’s Life Achievement Award.  There is also footage of a dying Eddie Fisher – which feels intrusive.  We also see Carrie at one of those movie conventions selling autographs, and Debbie’s memorabilia auctions, which at least raised millions for the family. The bond between mother and daughter and son Todd is touching to see too.

The clips are a joy – people my age grew up with Debbie in the movies and on all those magazine covers. She was one amazing trouper for whom the show always had to go on. It makes me want to go back to THE TENDER TRAP, POSTCARDS FROM THE EDGE, SHAMPOO and THESE OLD BROADS. A HBO production directed by Alexis Bloom and Fisher Stevens. 

More Debbie at label.