The Last Movie Stars: Ethan Hawke’s Documentary on Paul Newman and Joan Woodward
The weight of stardom has left many casualties in the same measure as it has generated a fascination with success. Those who become the greatest in their field are glorified because only the sweetened part of their story tends to reach the public. This causes a certain alienation for the famous person, as it becomes difficult to explain and understand the problems and pressure that fame brings.
Paul Newman and Joan Woodward experienced this firsthand. They were undoubtedly two of the biggest icons that the entertainment industry has ever produced. A couple who had to juggle the creative and professional with the personal, however difficult that might seem. It’s no surprise that in Hollywood, divorce has been practically a rule since the industry’s inception. But they were different in every sense…
With The Last Movie Stars, Ethan Hawke approaches both figures. The couple’s descendants asked him to create this documentary because there was so much unpublished material that would allow the public to get to know both of them better.
Hawke then decided to bring together a diverse group of actors and friends, from Vincent D’Onofrio to Sam Rockwell, including Laura Linney and George Clooney, to give voice to the first-hand testimonies of Newman, Woodward, Robert Redford, Elia Kazan, and other people who were part of the artists’ lives.
But this documentary goes beyond tribute. On the one hand, it doesn’t shy away from showing all the facets and the darker side of the artists. Their vices, miseries, and flaws, and the consequences thereof, are exposed in a way that allows the viewer to empathize with all sides. It’s clear that this was a pair of artists as brilliant as they were imperfect. It also addresses how difficult it is to raise children and maintain a relationship while having a career that takes you far from home, playing a role thousands of miles away. Add to that the fact that neither had ideal father figures, and it adds another layer of difficulty to being a parent. This gives the narrative a deeply tragic and melancholic air…
Their achievements are handled with care and a certain nostalgia. Their careers are presented with the kind of exhaustive detail and passion you’d expect from someone like Hawke. He emphasizes the value of their contributions both in front of and behind the camera, and the significance of each film in the lives of these protagonists.
It is a portrait of a Hollywood that no longer exists and likely never will again. One where star power was prioritized, and actors had enough importance to change certain things. It’s a Hollywood that has been highly mythologized, and in a way, this documentary contributes to that… But on the other hand, it aims to highlight the more intimate and human side, showing that things were far from perfect.
The analysis of the Actors Studio and the emergence of Method acting is particularly valuable. It’s an honest look at what this acting technique truly means, without falling into crude criticism or, on the other hand, glorifying such a problematic approach. Not to mention the incredible convergence of talents during that era. The title truly lives up to its content and the way it’s handled.
Hawke’s direction is quite dynamic, despite the massive amount of material spread over six episodes. The editing follows emotional patterns and has a rather unique structure. He possesses a very special sensitivity and treats the subject with respect, while maintaining a certain level of honesty. This documentary offers a unique and intimate perspective on these actors, while also inviting viewers to revisit their filmography, discovering new nuances.
The Last Movie Stars is the most comprehensive portrait ever made of Paul Newman and Joan Woodward, and by extension, of the consequences of being some of the biggest movie stars who ever lived. A demystifying project that carefully strips down these stars. And told by another star, Ethan Hawke. A true privilege.
