A documentary about Hugh Hefner, who in 1954 founded "Playboy" magazine, from which he created a lucrative empire and a fantastical, sexual lifestyle.
The film begins by exploring Hefner's inhibited, austere childhood, which ultimately led to the formation of "Playboy". But Hefner's intellect and wit were also reflected in the publication, via its articles and points of view. Also documented are events from Hefner's wild and chaotic life: his dependency on the drug Dexedrine, the growth of the Playboy empire, the lavish and lascivious parties at the Playboy mansion, the suicide of a close friend and associate, a drug investigation that nearly killed his company, and the brutal murder of Playmate Dorothy Stratten. The film, however, concludes on a very ironic note: Hefner, now a husband and father, playing on the lawn with his wife and kids.
2.
"Two Thumbs Up! …Fascinating." - Siskel & Ebert
Imagine Orson Welles' Citizen Kane by way of Madonna's Truth or Dare and you have a sense of Hugh Hefner: Once Upon A Time.
Producers David Lynch and Mark Frost, the same slightly-skewed team that brought you Twin Peaks and American Chronicles, have turned their lens on the founder and editor of PLAYBOY magazine. The pair was given access to exclusive footage including home movies of Hefner's childhood, tantalizing glimpses of life inside the Playboy Mansion, and other rare, behind-the-scenes footage of the man and his empire. This personal look, combined with candid interviews of both friends and enemies, makes this film a remarkable psychological travelogue on the man and his life.
At first glance, Hefner's story seems like a fulfillment of the American dream as he celebrated what he called the Good Life. His quest, though, has its dark side. This film explores his obstacles to that success, from his roots in a conservative Chicago family to his confrontation with the many faces of puritanism that dominated American society.
This is the tale of a man who created an empire of dreams and prevailed over all obstacles to become a part of the mythology of 20th century America. It is a compelling film that you simply must see!
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