Amidst the chaos of war, with artillery fire and smoke filling the air, and societal expectations and barriers weighing heavily, Lee Miller defied it all to capture some of the most impactful photographs of the 20th century. Kate Winslet’s latest production project, ‘Lee,’ brings this iconic figure’s story to life in vivid color, painting a compelling portrait of the activist artist during a period of her life that had long been hidden from the public eye.
On Wednesday night, a gathering of supporters, peers, and the film’s cast and crew – including Winslet, director Ellen Kuras, Andy Samberg, and Andrea Riseborough – assembled at the Celeste Bartos Theater of the Museum of Modern Art for the film’s screening. The event provided a platform to delve into Miller’s harrowing tale, one that resonated deeply with all present. “Her wisdom and compassion propelled her into an era of her life where she truly came into her own. She was uncompromising, unflinching, and deeply inspiring,” Winslet shared after the screening, her words reflecting the profound impact Miller had on her.
Filmed over nine weeks in Hungary, Croatia, and England, the film captures the raw intensity and complexities of Miller’s journey from fashion model to fearless photojournalist. The film poignantly showcases her unwavering commitment to documenting the atrocities of World War II with an unflinching gaze.
Miller’s war photography career took flight after collaborating with then-British Vogue editor Audrey Withers on assignments at the front lines. She captured the devastation of war-torn towns, the stark realities of concentration camps, and the poignant moments of both levity and struggle experienced by soldiers and civilians alike. These powerful images remained hidden from the world until after Miller’s death, when her son, Antony Penrose, discovered this historical treasure trove. Penrose, who was also in attendance at the event, immortalized these photographs in his book, “The Lives of Lee Miller.” “Through this film, I hope you get to meet my mum,” he shared with the audience in pre-screening remarks.
Samberg, portraying fellow war correspondent David Sherman of Life Magazine, spoke of the personal connection he felt to his character. “There was a lot of connective tissue between Sherman and my own family. My grandfather was in the war at the time, and my father was a photographer, so it all felt very kismet.”
Following the film, guests enjoyed a private reception at the nearby Acadia restaurant, where the cast mingled with friends, reflecting on the screening with champagne and light bites. Conversations buzzed with excitement about the film’s powerful portrayal of Miller’s life and her indelible mark on both the worlds of fashion and war photography. The night not only celebrated the release of ‘Lee’ but also reignited what is sure to be a lasting dialogue about Miller’s extraordinary story.
