Documentary Review: HATS OFF
The documentary draws a personal portrait of her 'can-do and will-do' philosophy as we follow her through her amazing work schedule and lifestyle.

By Ester Molayeme
Posted Tuesday, April 22, 2008

The inspiring documentary, by award-winning director Jyll Johnstone, covers a 10 years span of actress Mimi Weddel from age 80 to 90. Through photos, advertisements, film clips, and interviews, the documentary captures the essence of this remarkable woman, who at the age of 90 was named by New York Magazine as one of the '50 Most Beautiful People in New York.'

Starting from her lead role in the film Dracula's Last Rites (1980) at the age of 65, Mimi has been seen in print ads for companies such as Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Juicy Couture, and Nike, to name a few; in photo spreads for Vanity Fair and Vogue; in TV series including Sex and the City (1998) and Law and Order (1990, 1997); and in feature films such as, Across the Universe (2007), Hitch (2005) and The Purple Rose of Cairo (1985).

The documentary draws a personal portrait of her 'can-do and will-do' philosophy as we follow her through her amazing work schedule and lifestyle.

From her long 14-hour auditioning days, to the weekly gymnastics, dance workouts and voice training, she has redefined the meaning of old age as we know it.

Mimi's rising above the daily challenges and renewing afresh her passion for life is an inspiration for the young and old alike.