Mike Leigh on Mike Leigh - edited by Amy Raphael

 Like many people I first became aware of Mike Leigh with the television presentation of Abigail‘s Party. A notable occasion because I can vividly remember sitting watching what I thought was an amazing play. Laughing and then feeling dreadful for laughing, but all the time recognising that somebody had an eye and an ear for the nuances of human behaviour. I guess I’ve been a fan ever since.

So this book caught my attention. You might think that it is just a book for Mike Leigh fans. And of course it is but there’s so much more in it that relates to the making of film - the practical aspects, the technology as well as the artistic considerations, the art of the actor, the sourcing of locations and props that I think it has a broader appeal.

The book goes through Mr Leigh’s career from its start through to Peterloo. This is an updated version of the original book and begins with forewords to the new edition and the 2008 edition. The book then works chronologically through Mike Leigh’s productions offering a synopsis with cast details and then the editor, Amy Raphael, knowledgeably talking to Mike Lee about each of those productions. It’s fascinating stuff. And you really feel that you’re getting to know the man behind the lens, his motivations and his beliefs.  Known primarily for his film and television work the book concludes with details of all his stage plays containing his own commentary. 

This is as comprehensive a work as you’re ever likely to get on this talented director. It’s very readable and offers many insight into the life in the world of a film director, both specifically and broadly. Mike Leigh is as articulate outside of the camera as he is behind it and he’s quite happy to offer his opinions -  his agreements and disagreements - with his interviewer. 

Something I found fascinating was the number of people he works with who have stayed loyal to him throughout his career from all aspects of the creative process. That tells me a lot about a person. Especially as perhaps his methods are not necessarily conventional. Reading about the improvisation process was quite an eye-opener. And I ended up admiring his work all the more.

My thanks to NB magazine for a gifted copy.