‘Lucy and Desi’ Review: A Tale of Two Powerhouses

Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz are once again in the spotlight following last year’s Being the Ricardos, although this time its with the documentary Lucy and Desi. Directed by Amy Poehler, the documentary chronicles the ups and downs of the two powerhouses behind the I Love Lucy show. It paints a much more complete and honest picture than the biopic, showcasing how these two legendary actors took Hollywood, and each other, by storm.

Lucy and Desi explores the life and career of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz using video and audio recordings as well as interview with those who knew them including family members and friends. There’s a comfort in hearing both Lucille and Desi’s voices as they talk about everything from their relationship to their Hollywood partnership. It’s amazing how often their real life poured over into the show itself. Poehler does a wonderful job at lining up moments that are being talked about with clips from the show that reflect what Lucille and Desi were going through together. It’s normal to expect their personal and professional lives to bleed into one another, but Lucy and Desi does a great job at showing their influence.

The documentary is mostly positive, a trip through memories of good times and great people. It really showcases just how much of an impact both of them had on Hollywood back in the day. It does cover some of the tumultuous times between Lucille and Desi, but it doesn’t explore them too deeply and often ends things on a high note. Like how even though they ended up divorced and married to other people, there’s a heartwarming story that talks about the love they still had for each other near the end.

Honestly, there’s no such thing as too much Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. Their names no doubt go hand-in-hand with each other, even though they both have their own individual qualities and achievements. It almost feels impossible and wrong to talk about one without mentioning the other. Lucy and Desi is nothing groundbreaking in its presentation; it’s its subjects that make it absolutely fascinating. And for the most part, Poehler lets them do the talking. Fans will no doubt enjoy learning more about their lives, and for those who might have just finished watching Aaron Sorkin’s Being the Ricardos, it’s a nice addition to get to know the true story behind the movie making magic.