206. Filmworker; movie review

FILMWORKER
Cert 15
94 mins
BBFC advice: Contains strong language, nudity, sex references, bloody images

The Fenn Street Gang actor who became confidante, dogsbody and disciple to one of the most famous movie directors of all time.
The story of Leon Vitali sounds like it would be worth a film in itself - so, it is just as well that Tony Zierra has made one.
Filmworker is a remarkable story of Vitali's devotion to Stanley Kubrick and, since his death, to his work.
Nobody knew him or his work better than the Shakespearean-trained actor who gave up a very promising career in front of the camera to be Kubrick's lieutenant-in-chief.
Filmworker is how Vitali describes himself, claiming his life has been a happy one despite being at the service of an incredibly tough master.
Now, nearly 20 years after Kubrick's death, he is still entirely wedded to his movies and their detail in terms of restorations, cataloguing or his archive.
And he regrets not a minute of it, telling with enthusiasm about his nearly 30 years with the iconic director.
However, Filmworker is the chance to celebrate Vitali's contribution to the work of Kubrick and there are many who give hearty testimonials.
They include Ryan O'Neal who is full of praise for Vitali the actor who starred in Kubrick's Barry Lyndon and became so obsessed with the way he made the movie, he gave up everything to become a follower of the maestro.
One of the most fascinating contributions is from Danny Lloyd, the young star of the Shining who was cast and then chaperoned by Vitali during the film.
He, like all of the interviewees, speak of Vitali's empathy and talent for many aspects of the film making process.
And yet some offer tinges of sadness that they witnessed Kubrick treating him poorly.
Filmworker is another Dogwoof winner. In my view, the company is the most consistent in the business. Its name is the hallmark for quality documentaries.
Ok, it may by for film nerds but I accept that I am one and was fascinated.

Reasons to watch: A classic behind-the-scenes experience for film nerds
Reasons to avoid: It probably is a bit too industry-facing for some

Laughs: None
Jumps: None
Vomit: Yes
Nudity: Yes
Overall rating: 8/10

Director quote - Tony Zierra: "What appealed to me was that so many people in the end credits never get any exposure and attention and it always goes to the actors and the director and I thought it would be really nice to acknowledge and honour people like that – like Leon. "

The big question - Would you give up your career for the greater good?

Share this post