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Elmore Leonard: "But Don't Try to Write"

Elmore Leonard: "But Don't Try to Write" (2021)

Mar 26, 2021 56m Documentary History

Elmore Leonard, author of more than 40 novels, is renowned in the literary community. From his westerns and early novels of crime based in Detroit and South Florida, right through his complex and virtually plotless later work, Elmore Leonard dissected an America whose founding sins have continued to haunt it all the days. Leonard’s depiction of America is as real as Twain’s Hannibal, Faulkner’s Mississippi and Steinbeck’s Monterey. The new documentary ELMORE LEONARD: “But don’t try to write” explores the prolific author’s legacy and his influence on generations of writers. The documentary features exclusive images and previously unseen home movie footage, family photographs, and in-depth interviews with both literary experts and those who knew him well, including colleagues, family, and childhood friends.

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Directed by John Mulholland

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • John Mulholland
Writer
  • John Mulholland
Producer
  • Shannon Mulholland
  • Richard Zampella

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Thematic Analysis

Elmore Leonard: "But Don't Try to Write" represents a fascinating example of Documentary/History cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director John Mulholland brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Elmore Leonard: "But Don't Try to Write" took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 56 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 107 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 413 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The film contains approximately 2093 individual shots.
  • The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2021, when this film is released:
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Elmore Leonard: "But Don't Try to Write" shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Rodman: For Better or Worse, which focuses more on action than character development, Elmore Leonard: "But Don't Try to Write" subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like La folie du tatouage and Che: Part Two explore similar territory, Elmore Leonard: "But Don't Try to Write" stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: March 26, 2021
  • Runtime: 56m

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