Counter Culture

723 words, 4 minutes read time.

“Lee 2024” is a film that attempts to capture the essence of Lee Miller. She was a woman whose life was as multifaceted as it was fascinating. The film is directed by Ellen Kuras. It delves into the period of Miller’s life where she was most visibly in the public eye. This period was as a war correspondent during World War II. Yet, the film’s focus on this intense decade of her life leaves one yearning for more about her beginnings. It also leaves one yearning for the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped her.

Lee Miller’s journey began long before the war, in the glittering world of fashion. Discovered by Condé Nast, she became a celebrated model, gracing the pages of Vogue in the 1920s. Her beauty and charisma led her to become a muse. She collaborated with some of the most iconic artists of the time, including Man Ray and Jean Cocteau. She was not just a passive figure in these circles. She was an active creator. She developed her own surrealistic photographic style. This style remains influential to this day.

The film, while an important work, does not sufficiently credit Miller’s significant contributions to fashion photography. It also underrates her role as a muse and friend to the elites of the art world, including Picasso. It’s a narrative that I came to know through an ex-girlfriend. She was a photographer and feminist. She enlightened me about Miller’s remarkable life and work. This personal connection to Miller’s story heightened my awareness of the gaps in the film’s portrayal.

Miller says “I was good at drinking, having sex, and taking pictures, and I did all three as much as I could.” This sets the tone. It presents a character who lived life unapologetically. She lived on her own terms. It’s an attitude that resonates deeply with me and many others who admire Miller’s unabashed and rebellious approach to life. It’s perhaps, what enabled her to find ways to bypass blocks on her. She was banned from press conferences simply because she was a woman. She sneaked in. The British military wouldn’t send her to the frontline. The Americans would so she used her American citizenship to go with them. This admirable woman would not take ‘No’ for an answer!

However, the film falls short in conveying the depth of trauma that Miller chose to witness and document. These include the piled-up bodies at concentration camps. They also included the treatment of French collaborators and the horrific injuries of wounded US servicemen. These were events that left indelible marks on her psyche. Yet, the film does not delve into the why behind her willingness to endure seeing and recording such horrors.

Kate Winslet’s journey to bring the story of Lee Miller to the screen showcased her dedication. It also displayed her passion for the project. As both a star and producer of the film “Lee,” Winslet faced the challenge of portraying the complex war journalist. She portrayed the photographer with authenticity and depth. Her role as a producer allowed her to shape the film’s narrative. She ensured that Miller’s story was told with the respect and attention it deserved. Winslet’s performance was lauded for its fiery intensity. It captured the headstrong fervour of Miller’s character. It also portrayed the gentleness she exhibited post-war. Winslet faced struggles translating such a multifaceted life to film. Her commitment to the project was unwavering. She worked closely with writers and the director. She steered the film away from being a mere biopic. Instead, it became a more nuanced exploration of Miller’s day-to-day struggles as an artist and wife. The on-set atmosphere was one of camaraderie. Winslet’s collaborative spirit fostered this atmosphere. It it contributed to the film’s dynamic and authentic portrayal of Miller’s life.

“Lee 2024” is a film that, despite its shortcomings, remains an important piece of cinema. It brings to light the life of an incredible character, Lee Miller. Her contributions to art, photography, and journalism during one of history’s darkest periods should not be forgotten. It scratches the surface of a complex woman whose legacy deserves to be explored in even greater depth. Kate Miller’s efforts in creating this film are praiseworthy. The film serves as a crucial reminder of the extraordinary life of Lee Miller, a true renaissance woman.

Reviewed by Pat Harrington