As John Schlesinger’s centenary approaches, film enthusiasts and scholars alike are turning their attention to the life and works of this trailblazing British director. Known for his pioneering role in kitchen-sink drama and his bold exploration of bisexuality, Schlesinger’s cinematic journey is characterised by both groundbreaking successes and notable missteps. Events celebrating his contributions to film are set to unfold, reminding us of a director whose influence shaped a generation.
A Personal Connection to a Cinematic Genius
Michael Childers was just 22 when he first met Schlesinger, who was nearly two decades his senior and grappling with the aftermath of his film *Far from the Madding Crowd*, which had underperformed in the United States. Childers, who admired Schlesinger’s earlier work, approached their first date with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. To ease any potential awkwardness, he brought a friend along for moral support, armed with a coded escape plan should the conversation turn sour.
Yet, what began as a cautious encounter quickly transformed into a delightful evening. “He was charming and witty, with these twinkling eyes,” Childers recalls. The chemistry was unmistakable, and the pair’s connection flourished over the years, culminating in a relationship that lasted until Schlesinger’s passing in 2003. To honour Schlesinger’s legacy, Childers is now hosting a retrospective of the director’s work in Palm Springs, aptly titled *My Husband Makes Movies*, while the UK is rolling out its own season of screenings called *The Consummate Professional: John Schlesinger at 100*.
Schlesinger’s Trailblazing Cinema
Among Schlesinger’s most celebrated films is *Midnight Cowboy*, a daring adaptation of James Leo Herlihy’s novel. The film, which chronicles the life of a naive Texas hustler navigating the gritty underbelly of New York, challenged societal norms and garnered an Oscar for Best Director. It became the first X-rated film to win the Best Picture award, marking a significant moment in cinematic history. Actor Dustin Hoffman, who starred as Ratso Rizzo, vividly remembers the polarized reactions during its previews: “We thought this could end everybody’s career,” he remarked, reflecting on the film’s taboo themes.
Following this groundbreaking success, Schlesinger continued to push boundaries with *Sunday Bloody Sunday*, a sophisticated love triangle that showcased a bisexual artist caught between a gay doctor and a divorced woman. Unlike *Midnight Cowboy*, which wrestled with themes of repressed homosexuality, *Sunday Bloody Sunday* presented its characters with a refreshing frankness; a kiss between the male leads was depicted without hesitation or embellishment. “I wanted it as big and as natural as any kiss that’s been on the screen,” Schlesinger insisted, a testament to his commitment to authentic representation.
A Complex Legacy
While Schlesinger’s early works are celebrated, his later career saw a decline in critical reception, leading to frustrations and disappointments. After the ambitious yet disastrous *Honky Tonk Freeway*, which hobbled his Hollywood standing, Schlesinger’s subsequent projects, including the poorly received *The Next Best Thing*, left many questioning his creative direction. Childers reflects on these lows with a sense of sorrow, lamenting the director’s choices that led him away from the innovative storytelling he was once known for.
Despite the mixed fortunes of his later career, Schlesinger’s eclectic filmography remains remarkable. His ability to tackle varied genres—from the poignant *The Day of the Locust* to the light-hearted *Yanks*—illustrates an artistic restlessness that defies easy categorisation. Claire Nicolas, a producer involved in the UK retrospective, highlights the challenge of encapsulating Schlesinger’s essence, noting, “He contained a few too many multitudes.” This multifaceted nature, while making him difficult to pigeonhole, also enriches the discourse around his contributions to cinema.
Shifting Perceptions and Enduring Relevance
As discussions surrounding Schlesinger’s work evolve, so too does the appreciation for his pioneering representation of LGBTQ+ identities on screen. Childers expresses frustration at younger generations who may be unaware of *Sunday Bloody Sunday*’s significance, asserting its place as a cornerstone of queer cinema.
Moreover, Schlesinger’s openness about his own sexuality—evident in anecdotes such as his encounter with Queen Elizabeth II during the presentation of his CBE—contrasts starkly with some of the more controversial decisions he made in later life. His involvement in creating campaign advertisements for the Conservative Party during a time of considerable strife for LGBTQ+ rights raises questions about his motivations and the contradictions within his character.
Why it Matters
John Schlesinger’s legacy serves as a compelling narrative of triumph and tribulation within the film industry. His journey encapsulates the complexities of artistic expression, societal expectations, and personal identity, all set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing cultural landscape. As we commemorate his centenary, we are reminded not only of the cinematic milestones he achieved but also of the conversations he ignited—about love, sexuality, and the human experience—ensuring that his work resonates with audiences today and for generations to come.
