Watch Tony Curtis: Driven to Stardom

Tony Curtis: Driven to Stardom is a 2012 documentary film chronicling the life and career of iconic Hollywood actor Tony Curtis. The film is directed by Ian Ayres and features interviews with friends, family, and contemporaries of Curtis, as well as archival footage of the actor's many film roles. The documentary is divided into three main parts, each of which explores a different aspect of Curtis's life. The first part follows his rise to fame in the 1950s, as he propelled himself from a tough upbringing in the Bronx to become one of the most sought-after leading men in Hollywood. The film showcases several of Curtis's early roles, from his breakout performance in Sweet Smell of Success to his turn as a macho sailor in Some Like It Hot.

The second part of the film explores Curtis's personal life, including his marriages to famous actresses like Janet Leigh and Christine Kaufmann. The documentary also delves into Curtis's troubled relationship with his father, who was largely absent from his childhood and dealt with addiction issues throughout his life.

The final part of Tony Curtis: Driven to Stardom focuses on Curtis's later career and his work as an artist and humanitarian. The film explores his transition from leading man to character actor in the 1970s and 80s, as well as his work as an advocate for children with disabilities and his passion for painting.

Throughout the film, there are interviews with a wide range of Hollywood figures, including actors such as Harry Belafonte and Kirk Douglas, as well as directors like Sydney Lumet and Billy Wilder, all of whom worked with Curtis at various points in his career. Friends and family members of the actor are also prominently featured in the film, offering personal anecdotes and insights into Curtis's life off-screen.

One of the most striking aspects of Tony Curtis: Driven to Stardom is the way it balances reverence for its subject with a clear-eyed view of his flaws and imperfections. While the film celebrates Curtis's talent and charisma, it also acknowledges the darker aspects of his personality, such as his well-documented struggles with drug addiction and infidelity.

The documentary is also notable for its use of archival footage, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of mid-century Hollywood. Viewers are treated to scenes from classic films like The Defiant Ones and Spartacus, as well as rare behind-the-scenes footage of Curtis and his colleagues at work.

Overall, Tony Curtis: Driven to Stardom is a captivating portrait of a Hollywood icon, offering insights into his personal and professional life and showcasing the enduring appeal of his work. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Curtis's or simply curious about the golden age of Hollywood, this film is well worth a watch.

Tony Curtis: Driven to Stardom is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.