The Scribe of Stage and Screen

 Neil Simon passed away at 91 and he leaves a bountiful treasure trove of plays and movies that cover decades of romantic comedy at its best. Once part of the classic writers of Your Show of Shows along with Larry Gelbart, Mel Brooks and many others, he brought forth such classics as The Odd Couple, Barefoot in the Park, The Goodbye Girl, and Murder by Death, and much, much more.

His output was matched by his uncanny ability to connect with mainstream audiences. He wrote Broadway hits and later movie blockbusters.

We have a body of written entertainment to sustain decades more. Thank you Mr. Simon.

THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS and Its Hidden Agenda

This fascinating documentary from director Tim Wardle chronicles the incredible, true story of three young men who by chance realize they have much in common. It’s a chronicle that takes you on an unbelievable journey from fame and discovery to a deep mystery involving subterfuge and deception. 

This story starts over 50 years ago and comes into the public eye in 1980. What starts as an unusual case of coincidence, becomes much more as three males, Eddie, David, and Robert, who seemingly have no relation, are actually identical triplets with similar tastes and preferences. This uncanny trio becomes a media sensation appearing on every major talk show and news report.  But as their adoption background emerges, a fantastic truth is revealed. The subsequent cover up is only part of the story as we see the lasting effects on them psychologically and those closest to them.

Told from the point of view of the brothers in present day with interviews of other principals in their lives including family and spouses, it’s a study in manipulated lives and stolen childhoods with a cloak of secrecy that rivals anything on The X Files.  It raises serious questions on morality and the responsibility of tampering with human lives, and it makes one wonder how many other people have been affected?  How much do family and environment determine human outcome, and how much is genetically predestined? Is there such a thing as free will?

The film is successful in plunging the viewer in the middle of this story that becomes a personal search for the truth. Its images and impressions will stay with you long after the newsreel footage closes out the credits. Memorable and disturbing.  

***1/2 of **** stars