Release date: October 10, 2024 (NL)
Director: Ellen Kuras
Story by: Lem Dobbs; Marion Hume; John Collee
Distributed by: StudioCanal UK
Based on: The Lives of Lee Miller; by Antony Penrose
Starring: Kate Winslet
As a photographer, I often see the world through the lens of stories waiting to be told, and Lee brought this perspective to life in the most profound way. Watching the movie felt like seeing the heartbeat of photography itself—its power to capture history, evoke emotion, and bear witness to the human experience. Lee Miller’s story resonated deeply with me, not just as an artist, but as someone who understands the complexities of standing behind the camera and navigating a world that sometimes doesn’t see you.
Why Lee Stands Out
The movie tells the story of Lee Miller, a groundbreaking war correspondent and photographer who lived an extraordinary life during extraordinary times. What struck me most was the way the film didn’t sugarcoat her journey. Lee wasn’t perfect, but she was fiercely courageous—a woman who walked into the chaos of war with her camera as her weapon and her voice.
One scene, in particular, stayed with me: Lee’s determination to photograph the horrors of Dachau and Buchenwald concentration camps. It was gut-wrenching but essential. It reminded me that photography isn’t just about beauty—it’s about truth. Sometimes, it’s about showing the world what it doesn’t want to see, but needs to. Watching this, I felt an overwhelming connection to her purpose. As photographers, we’re often tasked with capturing moments that define humanity, even when they’re difficult to face.
Why Photography Matters
Photography is more than an art form—it’s a universal language. A photograph can freeze time, preserve history, and tell a story that words cannot. Lee Miller understood this deeply. She wasn’t just capturing images; she was documenting history for future generations. Her work reminds us that photographers aren’t just observers; we’re participants in shaping how stories are told and remembered.
The decision to make a movie about her is crucial because her legacy deserves to be celebrated. At a time when women were often relegated to the sidelines, Lee boldly carved out her place, proving that a camera in the right hands could be as powerful as a pen or a weapon.
"Fun" Facts About Lee
The film showcases some of Miller’s most iconic photographs, painstakingly recreated for authenticity.
Kate Winslet, who plays Lee, also served as a producer, deeply passionate about bringing this story to life.
Many of the film's scenes were shot in real historical locations, adding depth and realism to the storytelling.
Lee Miller’s son, Antony Penrose, collaborated closely with the filmmakers to ensure accuracy and honor his mother’s legacy.
Why Lee Moved Me
As someone who finds joy in capturing moments and crafting stories through images, Lee was more than a movie—it was a validation. It showed how photography is a force, not just for art, but for change, and how photographers like Lee Miller used their talent to bear witness to the world in ways that words could never do justice.
Her story reminded me that as photographers, we don’t just take pictures; we preserve emotions, tell stories, and, sometimes, change the way people see the world. Watching Lee wasn’t just inspiring—it was a call to action to use the camera not just to document life, but to honor it.
If you’re a photographer, a storyteller, or someone who values the art of truth, this movie is a must-see. It’s a reminder of why what we do matters—and why we must continue to do it, boldly and unapologetically.
"The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera." – Dorothea Lange
By: Anna-Luisa Ballauf about the movie Lee
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