Lee

 

Ellen Kuras’ directorial debut Lee, is a biographical drama chronicling the life of Elizabeth ‘Lee’ Miller, a fashion model turned fearless war correspondent for British Vogue magazine during World War II, starring Kate Winslet in the titular role.

Winslet delivers a powerhouse performance, effortlessly capturing Lee’s determination, resilience, and vulnerability. Her chemistry with the supporting cast—Marion Cotillard, Andrea Riseborough, Andy Samberg, Noémie Merlant, Josh O’Connor, and Alexander Skarsgård—added depth to the film. However, while Winslet’s character development was strong, the rest of the ensemble was less fortunate. Many supporting characters felt underdeveloped, making it difficult to connect with their journeys in a meaningful way. One of the film’s surprises was Andy Samberg, stepping into his first serious role with ease. His character was engaging and likable, showcasing a different side of the actor beyond his usual comedic persona. In contrast, Alexander Skarsgård’s performance suffered due to a distractingly inconsistent British accent that faded in and out, making it difficult to take him seriously. His character’s lack of depth further compounded the issue.

Despite these minor flaws, Lee exceled in its storytelling and thematic depth. The screenplay was well-written, balancing historical accuracy with emotional weight. The film powerfully conveyed themes of perseverance in the face of trauma and the moral imperative to act against injustice. Kuras’ direction, coupled with beautifully shot cinematography, makes Lee a poignant and compelling watch.

In the end, Lee was an admirable biographical drama that shined thanks to Winslet’s exceptional performance and a moving, well-crafted narrative. Kuras’ did a fantastic job in her directorial debut of a film that was both a visually stunning and emotionally resonant exploration of a woman who refused to stand idly by in the face of injustice and horror.