ROBERT ALTMAN The Oral Biography

What better way to do an oral biography than with a full cast of voices, including those of some of the actual people who offered up biographical snippets of the late director Robert Altman? Zuckoff's work is a lengthy account by friends, family, colleagues, and even critics that crafts together the story of his life. Yet one feels that all one gets is fragments of the accomplished film and television director. The production includes top celebrities sharing their experiences with Altman, including Meryl Streep, Tim Robbins, Martin Scorsese, and Cher. Though impressive, the numerous voices can be overwhelming and add to the disjointedness that characterizes this listening experience. L.E. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2010]