Itzhak Perlman: American Masters

Plimpton! Starring George Plimpton As Himself

American Masters showcases the remarkable life of famed participatory journalist George Plimpton: writer, editor, amateur sportsman, actor and friend to many. The documentary is both a chronicle of one of the last century's most intriguing characters, as well as a cinematic adaptation of his nuanced and funny literary style. Using Plimpton's own narration, interviews with friends, family and contemporaries, and previously unseen archival material, the film creates a compelling portrait of a one-of-a-kind person who lived fully, strangely and incredibly. Plimpton co-founded and worked as the editor of The Paris Review for 50 years; hung out with U.S. Presidents; played quarterback for the Detroit Lions; got Willie Mays to pop out in Yankee Stadium; photographed Playboy models; played goalie for the Boston Bruins; performed with the New York Philharmonic; acted alongside John Wayne, Warren Beatty and Matt Damon; and authored more than 15 books, including Paper Lion. Sharing these experiences and more, Plimpton! Starring George Plimpton as Himself is about football, literature, magazines, fireworks, hockey, movies, presidents, lawn chairs, geniuses, and the true tall tale that brought them all together. Directed, written and produced by Tom Bean and Luke Poling.