We’re used to film critics discussing the work of actors. But what about actors discussing the work of film critics? That’s part of the concept of “What She Said: The Art of Pauline Kael.” The documentary examines the work of New Yorker film critic Pauline Kael. She began her career in the 1960s and had to fight her way to be a respected female critic in a field heavily dominated by men.
The trailer is peppered with actors and filmmakers alike praising Kael’s work. One such offering of praise stated, “She turned the movie review into this expressive vehicle. It was as expressive as a short story or a sonnet.” Director Rob Garver interviews Hollywood giants like David O. Russell, Quentin Tarantino, Alec Baldwin to get their thoughts on the critic. Sarah Jessica Parker also steps in as Kael’s voiceover from time-to-time in the film, as the critic passed away in 2001.
Garver shows movies of the 20th century, the time period in which Kael was professionally active, through her lens. She was notoriously tough when she felt it was necessary. As one of the interviews previewed in the trailer states, she knew her reviews sometimes sent people to bed for two weeks. Another referred to her reputation as “that ghastly woman.”
The trailer gives a sneak peek at the dark side of her career. Being a critic isn’t all about watching movies and tear apart an actor’s performance. Critics face criticism as well, and Kael saw her fair share of it. “What She Said: The Art of Pauline Kael” is here to show every aspect of the legendary critic’s life and work.
Here’s the official synopsis for the documentary:
“The portrait of the work of controversial film critic Pauline Kael and her influence on the male-dominated worlds of cinema and film criticism.”
The documentary will be released in theaters on December 25. Check out the new trailer below.
