Episode 112 – Jon Spira, Director of The Life and Deaths of Christopher Lee
In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I sit down once again with Jon Spira, a filmmaker whose passion for British cinema and its unsung heroes has led to some compelling documentary storytelling. Jon is no stranger to the podcast; we’ve previously talked about Hollywood Bulldogs, his tribute to the world of British stunt performers, and Real Britannia, a deep dive into the history of British cinema. Now, Jon returns to share the creative journey behind his latest feature documentary, The Life and Deaths of Christopher Lee, which will premiere on Sky on October 24th, 2024.
Jon’s new documentary takes on the monumental task of exploring the life of Christopher Lee, a man whose career spanned over six decades, touching every corner of the film world—from his iconic roles in Hammer horror classics to his unforgettable performances in Lord of the Rings and Star Wars. But Jon’s film doesn’t just recount the facts; it delves into the emotional complexities of a man who, despite his imposing on-screen presence, was filled with insecurities and a desire to control his own narrative.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Jon’s approach is his choice to use a marionette puppet to bring Christopher Lee back to life—literally and figuratively. Inspired by a vintage TV advert featuring a digitally resurrected Bob Monkhouse, Jon initially considered using CGI but ultimately decided against it. Instead, he and his team collaborated with renowned puppeteer Andy Gent, known for his work with Wes Anderson and Tim Burton, to create a marionette of Lee. This unique choice allows Lee’s voice to guide the story, complemented by a voiceover from Peter Serafinowicz, who captures Lee’s rich, sonorous tones.
Jon explains that the use of the puppet was more than just a creative choice; it was a way to honor Lee’s own desire to control how he was perceived. As Jon put it, “It would be a really interesting film if you had him telling his story, but then you had the talking heads kind of warmly contradicting him.” This dual narrative allows Jon to present Lee as a multifaceted figure—someone whose reputation as a serious and often intimidating presence on screen belied a more vulnerable side.
During our conversation, Jon also opened up about the challenges and controversies of using AI in filmmaking. For one particular sequence in the documentary—depicting a dramatic moment from Lee’s past—Jon’s team used AI-assisted animation to bring archival photos to life. While this decision has drawn some criticism, especially from American reviewers, Jon stands by it, seeing AI as another tool in the filmmaker’s kit. “I think there’s a lot of knee-jerk reaction to AI, which I understand—it’s got a lot of scary implications for our industry,” he acknowledges. But he also believes that, when used thoughtfully, it can elevate storytelling, just as CGI did decades ago.
As always, Jon’s insights into the filmmaking process go beyond the technical. He speaks with genuine passion about the emotional core of his work and the importance of empathy in storytelling. For him, The Life and Deaths of Christopher Lee isn’t just about chronicling a long and varied career; it’s about exploring the humanity of a man who, despite his fame and accomplishments, grappled with the same insecurities and contradictions as the rest of us.
Jon’s reflections on the state of the industry are equally thought-provoking. He notes the challenges facing filmmakers today, from the tightening budgets to the unpredictability of streaming platforms. Yet, even as he navigates these difficulties, Jon remains committed to telling stories that matter—stories that, like Christopher Lee’s, are full of complexity, contradictions, and a touch of magic.
Whether you’re a fan of Christopher Lee’s unforgettable roles or simply interested in the art of documentary filmmaking, this episode offers a fascinating look into the creative process of a director who is always pushing boundaries. Tune in to The Filmumentaries Podcast and catch The Life and Deaths of Christopher Lee on Sky from October 24th.
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