Product Details

• Actors: Maurice Sendak, Spike Jonze, Catherine Keener, James Gandolfini, Meryl Streep
• Directors: Spike Jonze, Lance Bangs
• Format: Color, NTSC, Subtitled
• Language: English
• Subtitles: English
• Region: All Regions
• Aspect Ratio: 1.77:1
• Number of discs: 1
• Rated: NR (Not Rated)
• Studio: Oscilloscope Laboratories
• DVD Release Date: March 2, 2010
• Run Time: 88 minutes
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (14 customer reviews)
• ASIN: B0033XKVE6
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #48,753 in Movies & TV (See Top 100 in Movies & TV)
• Learn more about "Tell Them Anything You Want" on IMDb

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

Tell Them Anything You Want is an intriguing documentary focusing on Maurice Sendak, the curmudgeonly children's author who wrote Where the Wild Things Are. Filmmakers Spike Jonze (who directed the film version of that book) and Lance Bangs have a compelling subject to work with in Tell Them Anything You Want. Viewers don't have to be fans of Sendak's books to enjoy this film. As the title implies, the author (who was 81 years old during the making of the documentary) isn't shy about saying anything--some of which he admits may be made up. Sendak isn't overly modest about his brilliant and sometimes controversial work. But he still likes to question why the filmmakers are "doing a documentary of a brain-dead person." Clearly, Sendak is far from brain-dead. Still whip-sharp and witty, he is equally at home cussing up a storm or relaying fantastic stories that should be made into books. At one time, his work was considered inappropriate for kids. But he has always held the theory that children are a lot smarter than adults give them credit for. You can tell them anything, as long as you're being honest. The documentary includes some shout-outs from A-listers such as Meryl Streep, Catherine Keener, and James Gandolfini. But it's Sendak himself who is the shining star. --Jae-Ha Kim

Product Description

From Lance Bangs and Spike Jonze, acclaimed director of Where The Wild Things Are, comes A Portrait Of Maurice Sendak, a loving look at one of the most cherished and controversial figures in children's literature. Featuring Tell Them Anything You Want, this is a deeply moving tribute to Sendak, a seminal talent whose conflicts with success and lifelong obsession with death have subtly influenced his work. Now 81, Sendak is best known for his book, Where The Wild Things Are, which he wrote twelve years into his career as a writer and illustrator. Wild Things would go on to become one of the most beloved and critically lauded children's books of all time and, much to Sendak's chagrin, would come to define his career. Through his own words, personal photos, and illustrations, Sendak offers a rare, intimate, and unexpected look at his exceptional life. A Portrait Of Maurice Sendak also features James Gandolfini, Meryl Streep, Catherine Keener, and Tony Kushner honoring their friend and colleague. Contains exclusive features directed by Spike Jonze.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars moving and funny!!! March 3, 2010

By Daphne I. Gardner

Format:DVD

I loved this film! Having read many of Sendak's books as a child it was wonderful to revisit the stories that filled my childhood and learn about their fascinating author and illustrator. Jonze and Bangs create an intimate and moving portrait of a brilliant man. Sendak's own personal life is filled with rich stories and his sense of humor is infectious. I would recommend this doc, if you ever read one of Sendak's books you need to learn about this amazing artist.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Companion Piece to Wild Things February 23, 2010

By Jonathan Michael Hicks

Format:DVD

This is such an intimate and beautifully structured documentary of Sendak. Jonze has created another quirky, irreverent and poetical portrait. It's short, yet plays at just the right length. Don't miss the bonus feature which play out just as dramatically as the featured work.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Great! February 23, 2010

By Shannon Jeunette

Format:DVD

A deeply moving tribute to Sendak, one of the world most cherished authors of childrens literature. This film offers a rare and personal look inside the life of Sendak. The DVD includes great DVD Special Features including a Q&A with Spike Jones and Maurice Sendak at the Museum of Modern Art.