Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 10, 2024 9:01 pm GMT
Kate Winslet is making waves with her latest project, insisting that her biopic about the pioneering photojournalist Lee Miller must be directed by a woman. The film, titled Lee, portrays Miller’s incredible journey, highlighting her role as a truth-seeker and her experiences during World War II.
A Strong Vision for Lee Miller’s Story
Miller, an American photographer who became renowned for her groundbreaking work as a war correspondent, is often remembered for her earlier life as a model for Vogue and her relationship with surrealist artist Man Ray. Winslet, who also stars and co-produces the film, has emphasized the need to present a more nuanced portrayal of Miller, particularly during the dark times of the war when she reported from the front lines.
“There was no question that it would be a woman who would direct this film,” Winslet stated, aligning her vision for the project closely with the narrative strength and representation that a female director could offer. She aims to challenge the predominantly male perspectives that have historically dominated Miller’s life story.
The Directorial Debut of Ellen Kuras
Ellen Kuras, well-known for her cinematography in acclaimed films like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, is at the helm as the director. This marks her feature directorial debut, although she has previously co-directed the Emmy-winning documentary The Betrayal (Nerakhoon). Winslet’s decision to select Kuras was deeply rooted in their collaborative history and Kuras’s understanding of Miller’s complex life.
Kuras noted that potential investors were often dismissive of Miller’s story, framing it as “a woman’s story” that didn’t warrant serious consideration. “Why would you want to make a story about her?” Kuras recounted one investor’s patronizing question, shedding light on the broader societal issues surrounding female narratives in film.
Redefining Miller’s Legacy
Through this biopic, both Winslet and Kuras aim to shift the focus from the traditional portrayal of Miller as a “damaged woman” to one that honors her as an influential figure in journalism. Kuras expressed hope that the film will shift perspectives, showcasing Miller as a woman who ventured into the battlefield to share crucial truths rather than merely existing in the shadows of men in her life.
“Lee is a great role model because she wasn’t given the opportunity to become a war correspondent. She went out and found it,” Kuras remarked, stressing Miller’s resilience and determination. The film aims to depict her with the respect and dignity she deserves, particularly highlighting her experiences with PTSD following the war.
Authenticity in Storytelling
In addition to the film’s narrative, Kuras plans to recreate significant events from Miller’s life, including her striking self-portrait in Adolf Hitler’s bath. This moment resonates with the complexities of Miller’s life, symbolizing her dual existence as a model and a war correspondent. Kuras is conscious of Miller’s past as an objectified model and aims to handle these portrayals thoughtfully to avoid sexualization.
Winslet has also made a statement regarding body positivity by refusing to hide her “belly rolls” in a bikini scene, signaling the film’s commitment to authenticity in its representations.
Collaborating with Family
The film is adapted from Antony Penrose’s book, The Lives of Lee Miller, which details the life of Miller through the lens of her son. Kuras expressed gratitude for Penrose’s openness in sharing access to Miller’s personal archive, stating, “Normally you only see selected photographs. To be able to see her contact sheets enabled me to get into her mind and to see how she was seeing the world.”
This level of authenticity is crucial for Kuras as she navigates the challenges of bringing Miller’s impactful story to the screen. The filmmakers aim to emphasize that Miller’s professional accomplishments are as important as her personal relationships, allowing audiences to appreciate her work and legacy fully.
Anticipation Builds for Lee
The film, which has taken over eight years to come to fruition, is now in cinemas, and with Winslet’s compelling performance and Kuras’s direction, there is significant anticipation surrounding its release. It seeks not only to entertain but also to educate audiences about Lee Miller’s formidable contributions during one of history’s most tumultuous periods.
As the film highlights the importance of female perspectives in storytelling, it stands to challenge traditional narratives and provide a platform for women’s voices in both historical recounts and current cinematography practices. With a focus on the human experience amidst conflict and pursuit of truth, Lee aims to redefine how we view and remember its titular character and the significant roles women play—both behind and in front of the lens.
This film is very moving and tells a powerful story. You can learn more about it by checking out some reviews and articles online.
