Appearing Nitely

About This Movie

So, 'Appearing Nitely' from 1979 is a TV movie that captures a live performance of Lily Tomlin's Broadway show. It's got this lively and eclectic atmosphere, thanks to her impressive range of over 20 characters, each bringing their own brand of humor. The pacing is snappy, which keeps you engaged as you hop from one zany persona to another—think Edith Ann's childlike whimsy to Ernestine's sharp wit. It's cool how Tomlin, being the first woman to go solo on Broadway, managed to blend these characters into a cohesive narrative. The practical effects are minimal but clever, allowing the focus to stay on her performances, which are just a joy to watch. Definitely a significant piece of television history.

This film has a certain scarcity in collector circles, especially considering its TV movie roots. It hasn’t had a wide release on formats like DVD or Blu-ray, so many fans might only have access via old VHS tapes or digital finds. The uniqueness of Tomlin's performance and character work is generally well-regarded, making it a point of interest for those who appreciate theatrical history and comedic art.