Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You

Legendary producer Norman Lear—now a lively 93—is literally a walking history of television. After getting his start writing for Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, Lear embarked on a groundbreaking career writing and producing socially and politically edgy sitcoms in the 1970s. “All in the Family,” “Maude,” “Good Times,” and “The Jeffersons” did nothing less than transform both the TV medium and the national consciousness with their humorous and humanistic take on the most important issues facing Americans. As “Everybody Loves Raymond” creator Phil Rosenthal says, there are two eras in television: Before Norman, and After Norman. Filmmakers Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady (“Jesus Camp,” TCFF 2006; “Detropia,” TCFF 2012) strike a perfect balance between the irresistibly witty Lear sharing illuminating stories from his life, and entertaining clips of his iconic work. Lear claims that laughter adds years to your life. If he’s right, this brassily delightful film might just help you make it to 93 yourself. In Person: Director Heidi Ewing; Norman Lear via Skype.