How Kate Winslet Overcame Sexism and Self-Doubt to Bring ‘Lee’ to Life
Despite having a Best Actress Oscar and seven nominations, Kate Winslet has learned that even Hollywood’s highest accolades don’t always open doors easily. When trying to secure financing for her latest film, ‘Lee’, about model-turned-war photographer Lee Miller, Winslet faced scepticism, particularly from men who questioned, “Why should I like this woman?” Winslet, who served as both producer and lead actress, found these comments absurd but persisted.
The project took nearly a decade to bring to life, with Winslet often doubting if it would ever happen. Yet, her struggles connected her more deeply to Miller, who also faced resistance while documenting World War II atrocities for Vogue. Initially dismissed as a former model, Miller had to fight against the chauvinism of editors and military officials. Winslet, who would turn 49 in October, felt inspired by Miller’s tenacity and refusal to accept “no” for an answer.
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“I could almost feel Lee urging me on,” Winslet says, reflecting on Miller’s ability to reinvent herself in her 30s and 40s. That determination fueled Winslet throughout the filmmaking process, but it came at a personal cost.
Winslet, a mother of three, admits she hasn’t yet mastered balancing work and life. During the film’s nine-week shoot across Hungary, Croatia, and the U.K., she and producing partner Kate Solomon even shared accommodations so they could work after long days of shooting. Winslet often got just a few hours of sleep before waking up at 4 a.m. to start all over again. “I lived and breathed this movie,” she says, noting her family is relieved now that it’s done. “They’re very happy I’m not talking about Lee Miller anymore.”
Image Courtesy: People
Despite the exhaustion, Winslet is grateful for the experience, especially considering her humble roots. Raised in a working-class family in southern England, Winslet broke out in 1994’s ‘Heavenly Creatures’ and has since become one of her generation’s most acclaimed actresses.
Reflecting on her journey, she says, “Eighteen-year-old Kate Winslet would never have believed any of this.” ‘Lee’ hits theatres on 27th September.
–Farheen Ali
