The highly anticipated film ‘Lee’, starring Kate Winslet as renowned photographer Lee Miller, has finally unveiled its first teaser and full-length trailer. The film, directed by Oscar-nominated auteur Ellen Kuras, promises to delve into the most significant decade of Miller’s life, spanning from 1938 to 1948. This period witnessed her transformation from a model into a courageous war correspondent for British Vogue, where she chronicled the devastating realities of World War II.
‘Lee’ is more than just a biopic; it seeks to explore the complexities of Miller’s journey as she navigated the horrors of war. The film depicts her unwavering spirit and determination to use her Rolleiflex camera to give voice to the voiceless, capturing the suffering and aftermath of the conflict. Her photographs, particularly those taken in Dachau and across Europe, remain among the most historically impactful images of the war, forever changing the landscape of war photography.
The film boasts a stellar cast, bringing together renowned actors to portray key figures in Miller’s life. Alongside Winslet as Miller, Alexander Skarsgård plays Roland Penrose, her second husband, while Josh O’Connor takes on the role of Antony Penrose, their son. Andrea Riseborough appears as Audrey Withers, the formidable editor-in-chief of British Vogue, and Marion Cotillard embodies Solange D’Ayen, the fashion director of French Vogue. Other notable actors include Noémie Merlant, Samuel Barnett, and Andy Samberg, portraying significant figures from the world of photography and journalism during that era.
Miller’s extraordinary life story begins with her early career as a model for American Vogue, where Conde Nast himself intervened to save her from an oncoming car, ultimately leading her to meet editor-in-chief Edna Woolman Chase. She later moved to Paris to study photography under Man Ray, becoming both his lover and muse for several years. However, the outbreak of war thrust Miller into a new role, becoming British Vogue’s official war correspondent. She courageously travelled to France shortly after D-Day, documenting the siege of St Malo, the liberation of Paris, and the opening of Dachau for the magazine’s pages. Despite her professional success, Miller battled depression throughout her life, a testament to the profound impact of her experiences.
‘Lee’ is poised to be a powerful and moving film, offering a glimpse into the life of a remarkable woman who dared to challenge societal expectations and use her art to illuminate the darkest corners of human history. The film is set to release on September 13, 2024, marking a date for film enthusiasts to eagerly anticipate.
