Hats Off

"Rise above it" is the daily mantra of the remarkable Mimi Weddell, a 93-year-old actress you've seen in ads and spreads in Vanity Fair and Vogue, and onscreen in everything from Woody Allen movies to Sex in the City. This absolutely fabulous documentary profiles the wit and eccentricities of this most unusual woman, who began her acting career at age 65 and, at age 90 was named by New York Magazine one of the "50 Most Beautiful People in New York. Bay Area filmmaker Jyll Johnstone followed Mimi Weddell over the course of 10 years, documenting an extraordinary life that mocks the traditional image of old age. From gymnastic and dance workouts to cattle-call auditions, this bohemian free spirit exudes a "can-do" attitude in response to the many trials and challenges she's faced in her lifetime. Sharing her Manhattan apartment with her two grown children and a grandchild, she lives not lavishly, but zestfully. She isn't a star, but she never wanted to be; she just wants to work. By the end of this movie, you'll consider her a star. Music: Frankie Spellman, Stevie Buzzell. Producers: Jyll Johnstone, Michael Arlen Davis. Director: Jyll Johnstone. (US 2007) 84 min.