Lee

 

  Kate Winslet is terrific in this pretty straight forward "bio pic" of the celebrated World War Two photojournalist, Lee Miller.

   Framed by an interview session in 1977, we are transported back to 1938 when Ms. Miller was working as a photographer for the British edition of Vogue magazine. We then follow her  as a wartime photojournalist during the war in France. The framing device is clever especially as the film returns to 1977.

   Ms. Winslet is fearless in a strong performance that rises above the dark and dour backdrop of the later days of the war. She is joined by Andy Samberg (in his first serious role) as Look Magazine, photojournalist, David Scherman. The two had a great friendship that lasted well after the war and through the chemistry of the two actors, that friendship and bond is very apparent.

    The film co-stars Andrea Riseborough as Audrey Withers, the editor at Vogue, Alexander Skarsgard as Lee's husband, Roland and Josh O'Conner as Antony. It also features Marion Cotillard, Noemie Merlant, and Vincent Colombe.

     Lee Miller's actual photographs are showcased in the film and many scenes are hard to watch as she brilliantly captures the horror of war as well as moments of meditation and even surprise.

      During the credits, we learn the fate (and see the actual photos) of the  people featured in the film. It's a tribute to Lee Miller, David Scherman and others like them that brought all the aspects of war home through their work. A grim reminder that no one really wins.