The documentary, which was directed by Walter J. Gottlieb, premieres in the metropolitan area on WNET/Thirteen Dec. 17 at 1 PM. Repeat broadcasts are scheduled for Dec. 28 at 3:30 AM and Dec. 30 at 5 AM; check local listings. Produced by Final Cut Productions in cooperation with Frank Loesser Enterprises for Public Television, "Heart and Soul" was seven years in the making. The film, according to press notes, "tells the story of an extraordinary artist from his early days in Hollywood to his triumphs on Broadway to his eventual decline and untimely death at age 59. It's the story of a man once described as being 'his own Damon Runyon character' — a tough-talking New Yorker with a generous heart, a volatile temper, and a passion for living that came through in his music."

Born June 29, 1910, Frank Loesser was a producer, lyricist, composer, writer and musical supervisor. His most famous musicals include Guys and Dolls, The Most Happy Fella, Where's Charley? and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Loesser also wrote The Illustrators' Show and Greenwillow, the score to the film "Hans Christian Andersen" as well as the lyrics for more than 100 films.

For more information or to purchase a copy of the documentary on DVD, visit www.loessermovie.org.