MOVIE REVIEW
Lucy and Desi
RELEASE DATE: March 4, 2022 (streaming)
RATING: PG (language, thematic elements, smoking)

While much attention has been focused this past year on Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, especially in light of
Oscar nominations for both Nicole Kidman and Javier Bardem for their portrayal of the couple in the
Aaron Sorkin-directed film, Being the Ricardos, even more deserving of an audience is a documentary
titled Lucy and Desi.
Amy Poehler, best known for her comic wit and comedic acting skills, is the director of this film that
chronicles the ups and downs of this couple’s relationship. What was at the time a rather unlikely
pairing led to Ball and Arnaz becoming a powerful team in the television industry professionally, bringing
talent together even as they drew apart personally.
This film tells their story through wonderful archival footage and home movies, with interviews
throughout that include Lucy and Desi themselves, as well as their children, Lucie Arnaz Luckinbill and
Desi Arnaz, Jr.; and entertainment legends Norman Lear, Carol Burnett and Bette Midler. Additional
insight about the couple’s role in television history and comedy is provided by Laura LaPlaca, media
historian and archivist.
Clear throughout the film is Lucy and Desi’s love for each other, even though they were unable to
remain married. As Desi is quoted as having said, “I Love Lucy was never just a title.”
Kudos to Amy Poehler and her team for delivering an interesting and well-paced film that is both
revealing and reflective.