Watch Arthur Miller: Writer

Arthur Miller: Writer is a 2017 documentary, directed by Rebecca Miller, that explores the life and work of Arthur Miller, one of the most significant playwrights of the 20th century. Miller is best known for his plays such as Death of a Salesman, The Crucible, and A View from the Bridge, which have been performed throughout the world and are still widely studied in literature and theatre classes today.

The film takes a personal approach, as the director is the daughter of Arthur Miller and his third wife, photographer Inge Morath. Miller's family, friends and collaborators provide insightful anecdotes and reflections on his life and work, along with archival footage of Miller participating in interviews and attending events. It is clear throughout the film that Miller was a complex person, with a deep understanding of human nature and a keen awareness of the political and social issues of his time.

The film covers various aspects of Miller's life and work, including his childhood in Harlem, his early career as a journalist and writer, his marriage to Marilyn Monroe, his political activism, and his later years. One of the most poignant moments in the film comes when Miller's sister Joan Copeland reads from his personal letters about the death of their mother, which deeply affected Miller and influenced his writing.

Throughout the documentary, Miller's own words and ideas are interwoven with the observations of those who knew him. The film highlights Miller's exploration of universal themes such as ambition, betrayal, regret, and the responsibility of individuals in society. Miller was a writer who believed in the power of words to create change, and his plays often sought to expose societal injustices and challenge the status quo.

The film also delves into Miller's activism and the ways in which his politics influenced his writing. Miller was a vocal critic of the McCarthy era and of the government's treatment of communists, and his refusal to name names to the House Un-American Activities Committee resulted in his conviction for contempt of Congress. The film explores the personal and professional repercussions of this event and how it shaped Miller's perspective on politics and power.

One of the most intimate moments in the film occurs when Miller's daughter Rebecca reads from his journals, in which he reflects on his own regrets and insecurities. Miller's struggles with depression and anxiety are also discussed, highlighting the toll that the pressure to succeed as a writer can take on a person.

Despite these struggles, however, Miller's legacy continues to live on through his work. The film includes interviews with actors who have performed in Miller's plays, such as Tony Kushner and Philip Seymour Hoffman, who describe the impact that his writing has had on their own lives and careers. Miller's passion for theatre and his belief in its power to effect change are evident throughout the film, as is his influence on the next generation of writers and artists.

Overall, Arthur Miller: Writer is a moving tribute to a master storyteller and a complex, deeply personal exploration of his life and work. The film provides unique insights into Miller's writing process, personal relationships, and political beliefs, and is a must-see for anyone interested in American literature and theatre.

Arthur Miller: Writer is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.