Nichols and May: Take Two + American Masters: Mike Nichols

Nichols and May: Take Two

This is a real gem: a short TV documentary focusing on the source of Elaine May’s comedic talent – her iconic skits recorded during the days of joint stints with Mike Nichols. A selection of TV shows, much of which comprises the iconic duo’s output, provides a glimpse of May as a volcano of energy, creativity, and wit. Her stage comedy also shows everything the director would harness in later films: her Jewish identity, knack for physical comedy and ability to improvise. It also reveals something else that was evident even back then: May always had to have the last word.

American Masters: Mike Nichols

It’s a testament to Elaine May’s respect for Mike Nichols that, after a hiatus of almost 30 years, she returned to the director’s chair to pay tribute to her recently departed friend and artistic partner. This brief portrait of The Graduate’s director is somewhat personal, even intimate. While following the rules of a classic documentary, May allows Nichols to simply be himself – she doesn’t cut short his statements and allows his words to resonate as the camera directs its gaze at a familiar face. In this way, we get to know the director not only as an artist, but also a human being – and one who holds many controversial, unpopular opinions.

Patrycja Mucha

Phillip Schopper is an editor who has worked mainly on series and movies for television. He worked on Elaine May’s Ishtar as an artistic consultant and also appeared in the film in a small role. The documentary on Nichols and May was made for the American Masters series, for which he also directed an episode on Lillian Hellman (1999).