James Thurber: The Life and Hard Times is the first major documentary on the life and work of one of America's greatest humorists. Known for his classic short story, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Thurber was a legendary contributor of prose and cartoons to The New Yorker magazine where he worked for many years. Narrated by George Plimpton, this documentary includes interviews with Edward Albee, John Updike, Alistair Cooke, Roy Blount Jr., Fran Lebowitz and others.. "A labor of love by Adam Van Doren...the first major biographical film about the wit that many consider second only to Mark Twain as an American humorist." - The Boston Globe. "An enthusiastic cadre of fans contribute fond reflections of Thurber, whose short stories and cartoons helped give The New Yorker its reputation for sophisticated humor and classy writing over the 30 years of their connection." - The New York Times.