Documentary offbeat, even for Woody Allen

The usually reclusive Woody Allen is the subject of a two-part "American Masters" documentary airing Sunday and Monday at 9 p.m. on WNET/13. Allen, of course, began his career in television as a comedy writer, most notably on Sid Caesar's "Your Show of Shows" (and perhaps less notably on "Pat Boone's Chevy Showroom") before moving into stand-up comedy and the movies. Here are five of his more offbeat TV appearances:

Open End With David Susskind (Dec. 24, 1961) -- On this hard-hitting New York-based discussion show, Allen appeared on a panel to discuss the world of comedy, along with Johnny Carson, Mickey Rooney and two other comics.

Hullabaloo (Jan. 12, 1965) -- On the first episode of this music hour -- NBC's attempt to reach younger viewers -- Allen did his stand-up, sandwiched between The Zombies singing their hit "She's Not There" and Jack Jones singing "I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face."

Password (July 8, 1965) -- Allen was a contestant on the popular game show; his opponent was Nancy Sinatra.

Hippodrome (July 19, 1966) -- Allen was one of the rotating guest hosts on this circus-variety summer replacement for "The Red Skelton Show." In one sketch, he boxed the "Australian light-heavyweight champion," a kangaroo.

The Woody Allen Special (Sept. 21, 1969) -- Allen hosted this CBS special presenting an extremely eclectic lineup of guests, including the Fifth Dimension, Candice Bergen and the Rev. Billy Graham. (However, this being the pre-DVR era, many of his most ardent fans undoubtedly never saw the show because it aired on Yom Kippur eve.)