Let's dive into the world of Saturday Night Live and the man behind its enduring success, Lorne Michaels. I must admit, I was initially hesitant to dive into yet another SNL-related piece, given the recent onslaught of content celebrating its 50th anniversary. But, as a documentary filmmaker once said, sometimes you can make people care about a subject they thought they were done with. And that's exactly what director Morgan Neville achieves with his entertaining and insightful documentary, simply titled 'Lorne'.
In my opinion, what makes this documentary so fascinating is its focus on the enigmatic figure of Michaels himself. Despite his elusive nature and reluctance to speak to the press, Neville manages to paint a compelling portrait of a man who has left an indelible mark on television comedy. By interviewing a diverse range of Michaels' colleagues, friends, and former cast members, we get a glimpse into the mind of a creative genius and the secrets behind SNL's longevity.
One thing that immediately stands out is Michaels' strategic approach to comedy. Take, for instance, the iconic 'bee hospital' sketch from the very first show. When NBC executives deemed it a failure, Michaels doubled down, adding more bees to the mix. This bold move not only created an early signature for SNL but also showcased Michaels' unique brand of comic genius. It's a perfect example of his ability to zig when others zag, a skill that has kept the show fresh and relevant for five decades.
What many people don't realize is that Michaels' success is not just about his creative vision but also his understanding of the importance of structure and protection. As former cast member Seth Myers points out, building a live show from scratch each week requires a fair amount of stability in one's personal life. This may explain why Michaels, despite his success, chooses to keep his family life private. He knows what needs safeguarding, and that includes both his personal life and the show he created.
The documentary also sheds light on Michaels' tough but fair leadership style. While he may not be the easiest person to work for, as evidenced by the humorous cartoons created by Robert Smigel, his tough love approach has paid dividends. Michaels has not only launched countless careers but has also built an empire, producing hit movies like 'Mean Girls' and 'Wayne's World'. And yet, there's no resentment towards him; instead, there's a sense of loyalty and appreciation from those who have worked with him.
If you take a step back and think about it, Michaels' success story is a testament to his ability to navigate the unpredictable world of television. He has survived and thrived through good seasons and bad, always finding a way to keep SNL relevant and entertaining. His moves may seem counterintuitive at times, but they have ensured the show's longevity. As the documentary shows, Michaels is a master of his craft, knowing exactly when to take risks and when to play it safe.
So, is there such a thing as too much Lorne Michaels? Personally, I think not. Every new angle and insight into his world only adds to our understanding of the man and his impact on comedy. 'Lorne' is a must-watch for any SNL fan, offering a refreshing perspective on a show we thought we knew inside out.
