‘Who Is Martin Mull?’ movie review: A thorough and heartfelt exploration into a life beyond a career
Netflix’s documentary *Who Is Martin Mull?* explores the life and legacy of the actor, comedian and artist, looking beyond his familiar screen roles to the painting that was his deepest passion. The review says the film matters because it reconsiders Mull’s influence on comedy while challenging the idea that a comic’s life must be defined by self-destruction.
Started by Mull’s friend Bob Saget, who died during production, the documentary features reflections from figures including Fred Willard, Norman Lear, Patton Oswalt and Ted Sarandos. It traces Mull’s work on *Fernwood 2 Night*, *Clue*, *Roseanne* and *Arrested Development*, alongside his painting career, difficult childhood, more than a decade of functioning alcoholism and 42-year marriage to Wendy Haas. Mull died in 2024 after an illness.
- A documentary looks beyond Martin Mull’s comedy career.
- Painting was his lifelong passion and source of solace.
- The film explores his influence, hardships and 42-year marriage.
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Martin Mull was an American actor, comedian and painter whose career spanned television, film and visual art. Many viewers knew him from shows such as Roseanne and Arrested Development, as well as the film Clue, but painting remained a central part of his life.
The documentary also looks at the people and experiences around Mull, including his wife, Wendy Haas, and comedian Bob Saget, a friend who began the project. Its wider subject is how Mull’s work and private life fit together, and how his approach to comedy compares with common stories about artists and personal struggles.