Adrienne Shelly may be known to many as an actress (and director of the cult indie, “Waitress“) whose life was tragically cut short, but her story was far more than that. The HBO feature documentary “Adrienne” presents an intimate portrait of the woman with a zest for life and creative elements. Shelly’s husband — Andy Ostroy — guides this journey as both producer and director. His deeply personal connection to the film’s subject allows him to go into aspects of Shelly’s existence previously reserved for close friends and family.
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Ostroy pieces together the story through a mix of home videos, archival footage, and interviews with friends. The famous names he’s singled out to talk about Shelly include Paul Rudd, Keri Russell, Cheryl Hines, Nathan Fillion, Lew Temple, Jessie Mueller, Jeremy Sisto, director Hal Hartley; and Sara Bareilles. Friends and family add their perspectives to the project as they relate anecdotes only those who knew her best could tell. He also features the couple’s daughter — now 17 years old — whose own life was turned upside down with her mother’s death.
The documentary doesn’t shy away from the tragic loss that became a part of Shelly’s story. Interviews with retired NYC homicide detective Irma Rivera-Duffy in addition to forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden present a comprehensive look at what really happened. For Ostroy, it’s an emotional journey as he chronicles the initial police speculation that she committed suicide and the family’s unwavering belief that led to a murderer being caught. The results of which have left an undeniable mark on those who knew Shelly.
The true story of a visionary talent is featured in HBO Documentary Films “Adrienne.”The Blowback Production, in association with all for A Films project, premieres December 1st on HBO and HBO Max. Watch the film’s newest trailer below.