Lee - Kuras and Winslet’s Labour of Love
Written by Zoe Crombie
When you’re watching a film, unless you’ve been involved in the industry, you’re unlikely to think about the amount of time that was taken between the initial idea and the final movie emerging onto the screen in front of you. Though many studio products are made on tight timelines and plenty of indie projects are created in mere weeks, it’s not uncommon for production to drag and drag, especially when you’re trying to get people to believe in your idea and artistry. This was certainly the case for Lee, a film that’s been brewing since at least 2015, and that has miraculously lived up to the expectations generated by such a long wait.
Directed by prolific cinematographer Ellen Kuras – so you know you’re in for some memorable shots – Lee follows the career change of Lee Miller from a model to a war photographer during World War II. Starring key proponent of the film Kate Winslet alongside an ensemble of powerhouse actresses including Marion Cotillard, Andrea Riseborough, and Noemie Merlant, this is another story of trailblazing women in history finally being visibly celebrated onscreen.
Born from Kuras’ interest in Miller and Winslet’s determination to see the project through – Winslet at one point paid the cast and crew salaries for two weeks, and was patronised by male executives in her search for funding - Lee is a real passion project that beautifully sticks the landing after a lengthy fall.
Catch Lee between the 20th & 26th September.
