You Had To Be There is "Theater Kid Energy: The Movie"

The documentary "You Had To Be There: How The Toronto Godspell Ignited The Comedy Revolution, Spread Love & Overalls, And Created A Community That Changed The World (In A Canadian Kind Of Way)" offers a glimpse into the world of theater kids, those who immerse themselves in the supportive, competitive and explosive energy of making theater.

The film focuses on a single production of the 1972 Godspell in Toronto, which produced several famous names in comedy, including Martin Short, Eugene Levy, Gilda Radner, Victor Garber, Andrea Martin and Paul Shaffer.

Director Nick Davis gathered the living cast members and modern comedy and musical theater legends like Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mike Myers, and Janeane Garofalo for talking head interviews that try to recreate the "gestalt feeling" of the production. The film uses animated segments to fill in for the lack of actual footage of the show, hence the phrase "you had to be there."

At its core, the documentary is a love letter to the theater kid experience, which is characterized by an anarchic nature and a sense of camaraderie that transcends geographical boundaries. The film reveals how the production of Godspell brought together a group of individuals from diverse backgrounds, united by their passion for theater.

From Martin Short's childhood love of the Rat Pack to Andrea Martin's need for stability as an Armenian girl growing up in Portland, Maine, each cast member had their own unique motivation for joining the production.

The documentary also explores the highs and lows of the theater kid experience, including the jealousy and heartbreak that can arise within the group. Despite the challenges, the film emphasizes the intense collaboration and physical demands of theater, which creates a bond between performers that is unlike any other art form. The audio from the show, recorded illegally by Martin Short, reveals the group's camaraderie and playful banter, showcasing the close-knit nature of the cast.

The film also highlights the bittersweet side of the theater kid experience, such as the ending of relationships and the diverse paths taken by the cast members. Some, like Avril Chown, went on to achieve great success in Hollywood, while others remained in Canada to raise their families. The film acknowledges the sacrifices made by those who chose to stay in Canada, while also recognizing the impact that Godspell had on their lives.

Overall, "You Had To Be There" offers a poignant and entertaining exploration of the theater kid experience, showcasing the joys and challenges of making theater. It is a testament to the power of collaboration, the importance of community, and the lasting impact of a single production on the lives of its cast members.