Marina Zenovich's new documentary 'I’m Chevy Chase, and You’re Not' premieres on CNN on January 1, offering an unfiltered look at the comedian's life and career. The film explores Chase's rise to fame, personal struggles and on-set conflicts without his editorial control. Zenovich discusses the challenges of interviewing the 82-year-old star and securing reluctant participants.
Marina Zenovich's documentary 'I’m Chevy Chase, and You’re Not' begins with a tense exchange that sets the tone for its raw examination of the comedian's life. Off-camera, Zenovich tells Chase, “I’m just trying to figure you out.” He replies, “No shit. It’s not going to be easy for you.” When she asks why, Chase deadpans, “You’re not bright enough,” before grinning.
Zenovich, known for documentaries like 'Lance' and 'Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind,' found the rudeness relieving. “I’d never done an interview where someone was so rude to me,” she told Variety. It allowed her to address perceptions of Chase as difficult without him ejecting her from his home.
The film traces Chase's breakout on 'Saturday Night Live,' his leading roles, three marriages, addictions to cocaine and alcohol, a coma from heart failure, childhood abuse, depression, a failed talk show and disputes with actors like Terry Sweeney and the 'Community' cast. Zenovich sought the “real person behind the conflicted, guarded and somewhat fragile man,” uncovering self-awareness amid pain.
Interviews feature Chase's family, Mike Ovitz, Dan Aykroyd, Beverly D’Angelo, Goldie Hawn, Lorne Michaels, Ryan Reynolds and Martin Short. Producing partner P.G. Morgan noted Chase's quick wit made interviews intimidating, requiring them to address both positive and sensitive topics.
The project stemmed from a disliked book about Chase; his family aimed to “right a wrong” and ensure recognition amid documentaries on peers. It proved a “hard watch” for them, though ultimately appreciated. Steve Martin and Christopher Guest declined interviews, and the entire 'Community' cast refused except director Jay Chandrasekhar, whom Zenovich secured after Dan Harmon turned her down.
Zenovich rated Chase's interviews as challenging; he engaged but held back. The documentary premieres January 1 on CNN, streaming live for pay TV subscribers via CNN.com and apps.