Andy Kaufman was an enigma that thrived on chaos throughout his brief, but memorable career.

More than 40 years after his death – a death that some still think was faked as a stunt – Kaufman’s career is examined again in Alex Braverman’s new documentary “Thank You Very Much.”

Braverman has captured an effective snapshot of Kaufman, a film that manages to highlight his mystique to a new generation while giving his long-time fans just enough new insight to make it satisfying as well.

“Thank You” focuses on Kaufman’s brief, but meteoric career with some archive footage from Kaufman as well as new interviews with those closest to him – ranging from longtime collaborator Bob Zmuda, “Taxi” co-stars Marilu Henner and Danny DeVito, Steve Martin and former girlfriend Lynne Margulies.

Their insight helps to fill in the blanks for Kaufman’s comedic vision – creating chaos in every possible situation imaginable. The film showcases many of his highlights from his “Saturday Night Live” appearances to “Taxi” to his foray into professional wrestling.

Each event only emphasizes Kaufman’s genius. This is a man who was willing to cross every line and create something so uncomfortable that the audience would either be fascinated or disgusted – or sometimes both.

As a longtime fan of Kaufman, most of the material here was fun to revisit but not exactly anything I didn’t already know. There are a few moments – mainly focusing on Kaufman’s childhood – where I think the film unlocks some new nuggets for long time fans, adding a little spice to a rather tasty piece of nostalgia.

Where “Thank You Very Much” succeeds most is its ability to serve as the perfect introduction to those who may be unfamiliar with his work. Kaufman is the kind of visionary who would have thrived in the reality series, social media era – a comic who was well ahead of his time.

This film showcases that talent, giving a new generation a reason to dive deeper into the work of one of the all-time greats.

If You Go
“Thank You Very Much”
Starring: Andy Kaufman, Bob Zmuda
Directed by: Alex Braverman
Rating: No rating (features some language)
Playing at: Belcourt Theater in Nashville
Grade: B