Watch Marianne & Leonard: Words Of Love

Marianne & Leonard: Words Of Love is a captivating and intimate documentary film directed by renowned filmmaker Nick Broomfield, which tells the story of legendary musician Leonard Cohen and his muse, Marianne Ihlen. The film explores their enduring love story, which spanned over 50 years and became the inspiration for some of Cohen's greatest works, such as So Long, Marianne and Bird on a Wire.

Throughout the course of the film, we are taken on a journey through the ups and downs of Cohen and Ihlen's passionate and tumultuous relationship. Broomfield skillfully weaves together rare footage and photographs with interviews from individuals who knew Cohen, Ihlen, and their circle of friends, including Helle Goldman, Judy Collins, and Ron Cornelius. These individuals share their personal stories about their connection to the couple and provide insight into the creative process that led to some of Cohen's most iconic songs.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way in which it explores the complexities of Cohen and Ihlen's relationship. Broomfield does not shy away from depicting the couple's struggles with addiction, infidelity, and the challenges of maintaining a long-distance relationship. However, he also portrays the deep love and connection that existed between them and the profound impact that Ihlen had on Cohen's life and work. The film does an excellent job of balancing these conflicting emotions, resulting in a nuanced and honest portrayal of their story.

Another notable feature of the film is the way in which it showcases the creative process behind Cohen's music. Through interviews with musicians who worked with him, Broomfield highlights the collaborative and experimental nature of Cohen's approach to music. We see how he drew inspiration from his relationships, experiences, and the people around him, and how he constantly pushed the boundaries of what was considered conventional in music. This insight adds depth to the film and creates a richer understanding of Cohen's artistic legacy.

Overall, Marianne & Leonard: Words Of Love is a beautifully crafted and deeply moving film that provides a unique and intimate portrait of two extraordinary individuals and their relationship. It is a testament to the power of love and creativity and a must-see for anyone interested in the music of Leonard Cohen or the lives of iconic figures in the arts.

Marianne & Leonard: Words Of Love is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 69.