Albert Brooks hasn’t directed a movie since 2005’s “Looking for Comedy in the Muslim World.”

His final solo enterprise, “2030: The Real Story of What Happened to America,” got here in guide kind 12 years in the past. So seeing Brooks in Rob Reiner’s documentary is an occasion to savor earlier than the very first query is requested.

“Albert Brooks: Defending My Life” lets the previous mates reminisce concerning the comedian’s groundbreaking work, his non-public life and the way Hollywood tried, in useless, to corral his items.

Don’t anticipate powerful questions or salacious Hollywood grime. “Life” is supposed for anybody who cherished Brooks’ comedy and desires to relive probably the most peculiar personalities of the twentieth century.

On that scale, it’s a roaring success.

Brooks and Reiner’s ties return to highschool when the previous was recognized by his start title, Albert Einstein.

The 2 related lengthy earlier than they discovered fame and fortune, and people early reminiscences show heat and welcoming. Brooks’ recollections of his well-known father, a radio character stricken by poor well being, counsel the guiding mild behind his son’s comedian id.

Harry Einstein’s dying throughout a Friar’s membership roast is recalled with the sort of bleak humor acquainted to Brooks’ finest movies.

“Lost in America” featured a pair who misplaced every thing after a tragic evening at a on line casino.

We’re handled to Brooks’ appearances throughout the discuss present panorama, and each time he introduced one thing contemporary and strange to the stage. He would possibly strip right down to his underwear one second, then flip a toddler’s toy right into a hilarious sketch the following.

He was daring, courageous and prepared to strive something to make us snicker. And it nearly at all times labored. One wonders if right this moment’s protected company talkers would have room for an innovator like Brooks.

“Life” options Brooks’ admirers, together with Chris Rock, Jon Stewart, David Letterman and Conan O’Brien. Different speaking heads appear added for marquee worth solely.

Why would Reiner invite disgraced anchor Brian Williams to share his ideas on Brooks? Others, like Jonah Hill and Nikki Glaser, supply glib assessments of Brooks’ work.

We do get some fascinating, behind-the-scenes snippets from the artist’s profession. Studios repeatedly tried to muffle his movies, with combined outcomes. His breakout movie, 1979’s “Real Life,” almost hit theaters with out important suggestions, one thing Brooks knew in his intestine can be a horrible mistake.

That meta comedy previewed the daybreak of actuality TV and plenty of self-aware stars to come back.

Years later, a studio blanched at placing out a movie with the phrase “Muslim” within the title following an Islamist assault, forcing the movie to hit theaters underneath an indie studio shingle.

It tanked.

Reiner’s profession decline has been each precipitous and stunning, and it’s potential his Trump Derangement performs a task in that sorry state. The “Princess Bride” director refuses to carry his hard-Left politics to the affair. His method is straightforward, easy and heartfelt.

Which may be why Brooks permits the movie to softly invade his private life. We meet his spouse and two grown youngsters, and for all the comedian’s on-screen dysfunction, his household seems Norman Rockwell-esque.

Essentially the most uncomfortable moments come when Brooks and Reiner focus on their moms. Each had present biz aspirations however had been restricted by maternal duties. It’s the closest the documentary involves having an edge, and it’s not possible to not lean in and watch how the pair navigate their emotional wounds.

Brooks nonetheless works sporadically as an actor (2015’s “Concussion,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm”) however seems semi-retired as a comedic drive.

That’s a disgrace, however he’s left a legacy few humorists can match. It’s why “Defending My Life” is so satisfying. It’s a uncommon probability to relive his glory days and listen to him crack sensible as soon as extra.

HiT or Miss: “Albert Brooks: Defending My Life” recollects the legendary comedian’s profession in methods that can make longtime followers grin from begin to end.