Leading women: Film-maker on why the history of Hollywood is her story too
Storyteller on the lunch with Jane Fonda that shaped new celebration of Tinseltown’s groundbreaking women
Cinema is a matter of what’s in the frame and what’s out, according to legendary director Martin Scorsese.
But, according to another film-maker, women have for far too long been out of the picture with the men writing Hollywood’s history.
An ambitious documentary is aiming to change the image of films being a male-dominated business, though, by shining a light on the history of female cinema.
A host of female stars feature in the film, Women Make Film, and include Tilda Swinton, Thandie Newton, Debra Winger, Angelina Jolie and Jane Fonda. Fonda agreeing to take part in the project was a coup for Edinburgh-based movie expert Mark Cousins, the director of Women Make Film.
Jane hosted the film-maker at her home in California, where she talked about her role in a series of acclaimed movies and TV shows spanning five decades, quizzed him about his home – and served him lunch. “For me it was an honour to direct her,” said Mark. “We recorded her voice in her TV room in her house in LA and she asked if I was hungry and gave me guacamole.
“She watched a bit of Women Make Film, was noticeably moved, then began her voice-over. Immediately there was that strong, recognisable, warm voice. As she read, her right hand rose, fell and twisted, as if it was acting out what she was saying.
“It’s her attitude and knowledge which inspires. She’s been one of the most famous people in the world for six decades, yet is unblinded by that light.
“When I mentioned that I’m from Northern Ireland, she immediately knew lots about it. She asks questions, and there’s a modesty about her which is inspiring.”
Mark argues in Women Make Film that cinema history is littered with influential works made by and starring women – it’s just that they’re overlooked in favour of discussion about male heroes such as Francis Ford Coppola, Steven Spielberg and, yes,
Martin Scorsese.
“I did it because
I love movies, and was seeing so many great ones that had been forgotten,” he explained.
“I’ve often identified with films directed by women, and was getting angry that they were too often dubbed ‘women’s films’ and talked down to.”
Mark has had to respond to criticism from some who believe what he’s doing might be better handled by a female director.
“The criticism has come from people who haven’t seen it, and so don’t know that it’s about cinema,” he says. “Our film is another voice in the conversation – a passionate ally.
“As a movie fan, I loved the classic Hollywood stars ike Cyd Charisse, Bette Davis, and Kim Novak. I had a real soft spot for – and eventually got to know – Janet Leigh. And Katharine Hepburn’s voice and the angle of her head...”
Although there are more female directors and stars, Hollywood still has a way to go when it comes to featuring women’s voices, according to Mark.
“Things are improving in America, because it is starting from such a low base,” added Mark.
“It seems the richer the film industry, the fewer the female filmmakers. Elsewhere, things are getting better too, but the progress is slow.
“So many talents have been pushed aside or undervalued.”
Women Make Film: A New Road Movie Through Cinema comes to Amazon Prime, DVD on May 18