Kate Winslet Talks About Her Passion Project ‘Lee’: A Tribute to Lee Miller

Photo: Instagram/@katewinsletup

Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet recently shared the story behind her eight-year journey to bring the life of iconic war photographer Lee Miller to the big screen in the upcoming biopic, Lee. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter in Rome, Winslet opened up about the challenges, her dedication, and the emotional importance of telling the story of one of history’s most groundbreaking female photojournalists.

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How It All Began

Kate Winslet’s interest in Lee Miller’s story started by chance. She bought a table that once belonged to Roland Penrose, Miller’s husband. This unexpected discovery sparked her curiosity, and she soon began exploring Miller’s life. Winslet eventually teamed up with Antony Penrose, Miller’s son, to make her vision of the biopic come true.

The Challenges of Independent Filmmaking

The road to completing Lee was not easy. Winslet shared that there were many struggles along the way, especially when it came to funding. At one point, she even paid for two weeks' worth of wages for the cast and crew when the budget ran out. She explained, “Independent filmmaking has always been extremely difficult. Sometimes it is necessary to come together, channel collective energy, and be determined to tell your story in a sensitive, authentic, and meaningful way.”

Making History Come to Life

Winslet talked about the importance of ensuring the film accurately represented history. She and her creative team worked hard to make sure the film was as true to the past as possible. The team, including cinematographer Pawel Edelman (known for The Pianist), production designer Gemma Jackson (Game of Thrones), and costume designer Michael O'Connor (Jane Eyre), recreated Miller’s wardrobe and the look of the time with great care.

Lee Miller: A Trailblazer in War Journalism

Lee Miller was a pioneering woman in war journalism, a field mostly dominated by men. She is best known for her powerful photograph taken in Hitler’s abandoned Munich apartment bathtub, which has become one of the most haunting images of World War II. Winslet praised Miller, saying, “Without her, we might not have those extraordinary images documenting what happened to the voiceless victims of conflicts.”

Miller’s Legacy of Strength and Femininity

Winslet also pointed out how Miller helped redefine femininity in her time. She was strong, courageous, and determined. Winslet explained, “80 years ago, Lee Miller was already redefining femininity—to represent resilience, strength, courage, determination, and compassion. It’s how we raise our girls, it’s how we build our friendships and personal relationships today.”

A Personal Connection to Miller’s Story

Kate Winslet expressed a deep connection to Miller’s resilience. She said, “She never turned her back, never ran away, never went home. She stayed. She could have left, but she didn’t. We need to look to people like her for inspiration and leadership.”

Critical Acclaim and Legacy

Winslet’s portrayal of Lee Miller has already earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress. Her dedication to the role has captured Miller’s spirit and shown how relevant her contributions are today.

The Passion Behind the Project

As Winslet said, "Either you do it to the best of your ability, or you abstain. This is my motto."

With Lee set to premiere next year, Kate Winslet’s passion project promises to honour the life of a woman whose courage and artistry helped shape how we see history today.