Watch Discovering Steve McQueen

Discovering Steve McQueen is a 2015 documentary film directed by David Wilkinson that chronicles the life and career of the iconic Hollywood actor Steve McQueen. The film uses interviews with film critics and historians, as well as rare archival footage and photographs to provide a comprehensive exploration of McQueen's life and work.

The film opens with a brief overview of McQueen's early childhood years and his troubled upbringing. It then delves into the actor's early days in Hollywood, where he struggled to find work and was often forced to take on small roles in B-movies. The film explores McQueen's rise to fame in the early 1960s, thanks to his breakout performance in the classic film The Magnificent Seven.

Throughout the film, we hear from a variety of experts on Steve McQueen's life and work. Derek Malcolm, a respected film critic, provides insight into McQueen's acting style and his impact on the film industry. Ian Nathan, a film historian and author of several books on McQueen, discusses the actor's personal life and the challenges he faced both on and off the set. And Neil Norman, another film critic, provides commentary on McQueen's enduring appeal and his status as a cultural icon.

One of the film's most compelling aspects is its use of archival footage and photographs. We see clips from some of McQueen's most famous films, including Bullitt and The Great Escape, as well as behind-the-scenes footage from his movies and interviews with the actor himself. The film also includes rare photographs from McQueen's personal collection, providing a glimpse into his private life and his relationships with other Hollywood stars.

The documentary also touches on some of the controversies surrounding McQueen's career, including his difficult relationships with co-stars and directors, as well as his reputation for erratic behavior on set. The film explores how McQueen's on-screen persona was shaped by his off-screen struggles and how his personal life often mirrored the characters he played on screen.

Despite some of the darker aspects of McQueen's life, the film ultimately celebrates his enduring legacy as an actor and cultural icon. We see how McQueen's macho image and rebellious attitude influenced a generation of fans and how his impact on popular culture continues to be felt today, more than three decades after his death.

Overall, Discovering Steve McQueen is a fascinating exploration of the life and work of one of Hollywood's most enduring icons. Through interviews with experts and rare archival footage, the film provides a comprehensive look at McQueen's career and his impact on popular culture. Whether you're a fan of McQueen or just interested in the history of Hollywood, this documentary is definitely worth watching.