Top Docs: "Martha" with R.J. Cutler

By Mike Merrill & Ken Jacobson

Top Docs

October 31, 2024

In his highly engaging new Netflix documentary “Martha,” Emmy award-winning filmmaker R.J. Cutler (“Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry”, “Big Vape”) calls Martha Stewart the original influencer. Throughout the 80s and 90s, on her TV show and with her Kmart retail line and publishing empire, Martha defined good taste as it related to virtually every aspect of the American home. Her magazine and brand were called “Martha Stewart Living” for a reason.

R.J. joins Mike and Ken on the pod to provide further insight into this groundbreaking entrepreneur and cultural icon, whose advice on all things related to the American home gave her legions of fans something to aspire to, but who couldn't always fix everything in her own life. From her difficult upbringing, through the highpoint of her career, and then with her downfall and eventual, triumphant comeback, “Martha” offers a fascinating and comprehensive portrait that leaves no decorative stone unturned.

“Martha” is currently streaming on Netflix.

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‘Martha’ Stokes a Debate: What’s a Documentary, Anyway?