The Lorne Michaels Enigma: What the Documentary Reveals About the Future of Biopics
The recently released documentary Lorne, directed by Morgan Neville, is sparking conversation not just about the legendary Saturday Night Live creator himself, but similarly about the challenges of biographical filmmaking. Early reviews suggest a film rich in anecdotes and celebrity testimonials, yet lacking in deep personal insight into its subject. This raises a crucial question: how do filmmakers effectively portray notoriously private figures, and what does this imply for the future of biographical documentaries?
The Problem with Access: When Subjects Remain Elusive
A common thread in reviews of Lorne is the feeling that the film doesn’t truly “figure out” Michaels. As noted by Odie Henderson in the Boston Globe, the documentary leans into the premise of an unknowable subject, using humor to deflect from a lack of substantial revelation. This isn’t an isolated case. Many biopics struggle when their subjects are unwilling or unable to offer deep introspection. The result can be a collection of stories *about* the person, rather than a portrait *of* the person.
This trend highlights a growing tension in documentary filmmaking. Audiences crave authenticity, but filmmakers are often limited by the access they’re granted. The success of documentaries like Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain (also directed by Neville) hinged, in part, on the subject’s own extensive body of work – writings, travelogues, and television episodes – providing a window into his inner life. When that primary source material is absent, as appears to be the case with Lorne, filmmakers must rely more heavily on secondary sources, which can lead to a more fragmented and less intimate portrayal.
The Rise of the “Collective Biography”
Lorne appears to lean heavily on the perspectives of those who know Michaels – Chevy Chase, Tina Fey, and current SNL cast members, among others. G. Allen Johnson of the San Francisco Chronicle points out that the “chief pleasure” of the film is “watching others talk about him.” This approach, while entertaining, suggests a shift towards what could be termed a “collective biography.”
Instead of attempting a definitive portrait of a single individual, these films construct a mosaic of perspectives, acknowledging the inherent subjectivity of memory and experience. This approach is becoming increasingly common, particularly when dealing with public figures whose lives have been extensively documented by others. The recent wave of documentaries surrounding Saturday Night Live – including the SNL50 banner docs, Ladies & Gentlemen…50 Years of SNL Music, and Downey Wrote That – all contribute to this broader, multi-faceted understanding of the show and its impact.
The Appeal of Anecdote vs. Insight
William Bibbiani at The Wrap notes that even the “interesting tidbits” about Michaels in the documentary are a mixed bag. The revelation that many “facts” about his life were invented as a joke by Paul Simon is amusing, but ultimately superficial. The detail about his blueberry farm, while quirky, feels inconsequential. This underscores the challenge of balancing entertaining anecdotes with genuine insight.
Audiences are drawn to compelling stories, but they also demand substance. A documentary that relies solely on amusing anecdotes risks feeling lightweight and unsatisfying. The most successful biopics are those that employ anecdotes as entry points to explore deeper themes – ambition, creativity, trauma, or the complexities of human relationships.
The Future of Biographical Documentaries: A Focus on Context
The reception of Lorne suggests that the future of biographical documentaries may lie in a greater emphasis on context. Rather than attempting to unlock the secrets of a private individual, filmmakers may focus on exploring the cultural forces that shaped their lives and work. This approach allows for a more nuanced and insightful portrayal, even in the absence of full access to the subject.
For example, a documentary about a musician might not focus on their personal struggles, but instead on the evolution of their musical style within the context of a specific genre or historical period. Similarly, a documentary about a politician might not attempt to reveal their innermost thoughts, but instead analyze their policies and their impact on society. This shift in focus could lead to more compelling and intellectually stimulating biographical films.
FAQ
Q: Is the Lorne documentary worth watching?
A: Reviews suggest it’s an entertaining watch, particularly for fans of Saturday Night Live, but it may not offer deep insights into Lorne Michaels himself.
Q: What is a “collective biography”?
A: A documentary that constructs a portrait of a person through the perspectives of many different individuals, rather than relying solely on the subject’s own account.
Q: What makes a successful biographical documentary?
A: Access to the subject is helpful, but a strong narrative, compelling anecdotes, and a focus on broader context are also crucial.
Did you know? Many of the “facts” about Lorne Michaels’ life were reportedly invented as a joke by his friend Paul Simon.
Pro Tip: When evaluating a biographical documentary, consider the filmmaker’s access to the subject and the extent to which the film relies on secondary sources.
What are your thoughts on the challenges of making biographical documentaries? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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