Behind the Burly Q

"The Story of Burlesque in America."

Apr 23 2010 Not Rated 1h 37m
Documentary

Dive into more than a century of decadence with this tantalizing look at the evolution of burlesque. Cabaret star Leslie Zemeckis traces the art form from vaudeville-style variety show through its extinction and contemporary rebirth. Vintage photos, film clips and ads illustrate burlesque's resilient history and how the public's sexual appetite kept it alive amid moral and legal ado.

Official Trailer
Plot

An impressive number of veteran strippers are interviewed here, offering their memories. Also on hand are Lou Costello's daughter, and Alan Alda. He's introduced here as "son of Robert Alda", and only later is it established that the senior Alda was a small-time burlesque comedian and singer. I wish that this documentary had mentioned that Robert Alda later had a more prestigious career in Hollywood films and Broadway musicals. Alan Alda offers some candid memories of his childhood as the son of a burlesque performer.

Written by

Leslie Zemeckis

Directed by

Leslie Zemeckis

Cast

Bud Abbott, Alan Alda, Joan Arline

Crew

View crew

Production Countries

United States of America

Production Companies

Mistress Inc.

Languages

English

Awards

1 nomination

Trailers
BEHIND THE BURLY Q - Official Trailer
Scores
# of Votes
379
Average Rating
6.7 out of 10
Metascore
60
Popularity
NA