Steve Buscemi Brings Mary Oliver’s Poetry to Life in New Documentary Celebrating the Late Poet (Exclusive)

A new documentary titled 'Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World' celebrates the life and work of the late Pulitzer Prize-winning poet. The film features readings and interviews from prominent figures including Steve Buscemi, Oprah Winfrey, and Stephen Colbert.
Why it matters
The documentary highlights the enduring cultural impact of Mary Oliver's poetry and its continued relevance in contemporary literature.
Mary Oliver in 2010 (left) and Steve Buscemi in 2025. Credit: Frederick M. Brown/Getty; Rob Kim/Getty NEED TO KNOW A new documentary about Mary Oliver and her enduring legacy as one of America's most celebrated poets includes interviews and poetry recitations from Steve Buscemi, Oprah Winfrey, Stephen Colbert, Maria Shriver, Helena Bonham Carter and John Waters
Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World is available to stream Aug. 25 on pbs.org/americanmasters, the American Masters YouTube channel and the PBS app
For decades, Steve Buscemi 's instantly recognizable voice has been a Hollywood mainstay, most notably in indie films. Now he's using that voice to bring poetry to life.
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