5AM StoryTalk Double Feature: Fiction, Myth, and the Unknowable
These two films try to find biographical truth by resorting to the fantastical
In a new monthly feature, to be published on the third Saturday of every month, 5AM StoryTalk will curate a double feature for you to watch - or just show up in the comments to discuss in the vein of my weekly question threads. On occasion, I’m going to invite other artists and thinkers to curate installments, as well. The goal, as always, is to get us to look at and consider art and culture in new ways.
The philosophy of this double-feature series will primarily be juxtaposition. Films will be selected based on how they complement each other and reveal deeper truths about the other, but most often about filmmaking, culture, and the world we live in. I’ll offer very little in the way of explanation, as the process of discovery should be yours. We can discuss the films in the comments section, as I mentioned.
You’ll find this month’s double feature below…
DOUBLE FEATURE: FICTION, MYTH, AND THE UNKNOWABLE IN BIOPICS
Truth grows increasingly difficult to find when historical figures become mythological figures in their own and subsequent times. Fiction is confused with fact — sometimes this is even encouraged by the subject in the pursuit of celebrity — and spectacle replaces reality. Some filmmakers understand this better than others…
Feature #1: LOLA MONTÈS (1955)
Written by Max Ophüls and Annette Wademant, based on the novel La vie extraordinaire de Lola Montès by Cécil Saint-Laurent; directed by Max Ophüls
“And now, Mesdames et Messieurs, the moment you've all been waiting for. The most sensational act of the century. Entertainment, emotion, action, history. Mesdames et Messieurs, Ladies and Gentlemen, meine Damen und Herren, a creature a hundred times more murderous than any beast in our menagerie. A bloodthirsty monster with the eyes of an angel. Ravaged hearts, squandered fortunes, the saraband of lovers, scepters, crowns, an authentic revolution. Passion and glory, passion et gloire. Triumph and downfall. Lola Montès, Countess Maria Dolores of Landsfeld. In the very flesh!”
Feature #2: I’M NOT THERE (2007)
Written by Todd Haynes and Oren Moverman, from a story by Haynes; directed by Todd Haynes
“Yes, I was going to ask Mr. Quinn why he insists on putting us and the rest of the world on so? Some might be persuaded to doubt his sincerity.”
If this article added anything to your life but you’re not up for a paid subscription, consider buying me a “coffee” so I can keep as much of this newsletter free as possible for the dreamers who couldn’t afford it otherwise.
If you enjoyed this particular article’s themes, these other three might also prove of interest to you:
This is such a great idea. Unfortunately, I don’t think Lola Montès is available to stream in the UK.
Cole, this double feature was incredibly engaging! Pairing Lola Montès with I’m Not There was incredible, shedding light on how mythology and fiction intertwine with biographical narratives. The way you highlighted the intricacies of storytelling in the film hits home. I appreciated the unique viewpoint you brought to these cinematic pieces!"