David Lean Documentary Highlights a Painful Chapter in the Life of a Legendary Director and His Struggles with Movie Critics at Cannes
This week, a new film that explores the impact of capitalism on French healthcare has stirred mixed reactions among critics. While some hailed it as a masterpiece, awarding it four stars, others found it reminiscent of a college lecture. In contrast, the latest offering from acclaimed director Asghar Farhadi, Parallel Tales, has met with indifference and scorn from various reviewers, highlighting the subjective nature of film criticism.
In a more celebratory tone, the Cannes Classics premiere of Maverick – The Epic Adventures of David Lean has been well-received for its compelling storytelling and craftsmanship. The documentary features a poignant segment revealing a young Lean’s tumultuous interactions with prominent film critics, leaving viewers both stunned and sympathetic to the legendary filmmaker’s plight.
Lean, revered for classics such as Brief Encounter, Lawrence of Arabia, and Doctor Zhivago, faced a significant backlash following the controversial release of Ryan’s Daughter in 1970. Despite earning four Academy Award nominations, the film was met with fierce critique, to the point that Lean felt as if he had transformed into a target for scorn.
During a candid interview included in Maverick, Lean recalls his painful experience at a gathering of the National Society of Film Critics: "I sensed trouble from the moment I sat down," he said, reflecting on the scrutiny he faced. Richard Schickel of Time Magazine and the fiery Pauline Kael were at the forefront of the harsh commentary, with Lean expressing deep discomfort at the encounter, which left him feeling ashamed and reluctant to continue making films.
Joe Wright, one of several prominent directors featured in the documentary, noted, “David opened himself up emotionally with Ryan’s Daughter, and I think expected to be appreciated for that,” further emphasizing the disappointment Lean felt after receiving dismissive reviews.
Lean ultimately returned to filmmaking 14 years later with A Passage to India, which earned critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination for Best Picture. This film marked his swan song, as Lean passed away in 1991 at age 83. The documentary offers a timely reminder of the profound effects that criticism can have on artists, igniting discussions about the responsibilities of film reviewers in their assessments.
Aspects of Lean’s early life, particularly the lack of support from his father, are explored in depth, shedding light on their potential long-lasting impact on his self-esteem and career choices. The documentary, Maverick, promises to reveal the struggles and triumphs of one of cinema’s towering figures while urging audiences to reflect on the harsh realities filmmakers sometimes face.
