Last Movies: A Darkly Humorous Rewriting of History Through Celebrity Cinema Choices

A new documentary, Last Movies, directed by British artist and filmmaker Stanley Schtinter, offers a unique and unsettling perspective on the 20th century. Premiering at CPH:DOX, the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival, the film explores an alternative timeline of history shaped by the final films watched by iconic figures before their deaths. Narrated by Jeremy Irons, Last Movies is based on Schtinter’s book of the same name and presents a “darkly humorous” re-evaluation of cultural moments.

The Premise: What Did They Watch Last?

The central question driving Last Movies is deceptively simple: what were the last films seen by prominent individuals like Franz Kafka, Kurt Cobain, and Elvis Presley? Schtinter posits that these final cinematic experiences can offer a surprising lens through which to view their lives and legacies. The film doesn’t merely list these choices; it constructs a narrative suggesting that history itself might be remapped based on these final viewings. From Kafka’s viewing of Charlie Chaplin’s The Kid to Jean-Luc Godard watching his own film, Phony Wars, the documentary draws connections and patterns across time.

Research and Inspiration

Schtinter’s inspiration stemmed from a fascination with the intersection of celebrity, mortality, and the power of cinema. He was initially triggered by questions surrounding the assassination of Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme, specifically what film Palme had watched before his death. This led him to consider the case of Ian Curtis of Joy Division, who reportedly watched Werner Herzog’s Stroszek on the night of his death.

The research process involved extensive library work, poring over books and newspapers to uncover the final cinematic choices of hundreds of public figures. In some cases, Schtinter relied on firsthand accounts from those who were present with the individuals in their final moments.

A Critique of Traditional History

Last Movies isn’t just a quirky collection of film trivia; it’s a subtle critique of traditional historical narratives. Schtinter challenges the notion of objective truth and suggests that established historical accounts are often biased and incomplete. He draws on the ideas of historian Peter Linebaugh, who advocates for rewriting history “from below,” focusing on the perspectives of ordinary people rather than those in power.

Chance, Imagination, and the Power of Cinema

The film embraces the role of chance in shaping our lives and narratives. Schtinter describes his work as a “tribute to chance,” acknowledging that the final films chosen by these individuals were often arbitrary. However, he believes that these choices can still spark the imagination and offer new insights into their lives. He initially envisioned the project as a series of film screenings, with each screening headlined by the celebrity who watched the film before their death, encouraging viewers to connect with the material on a personal level.

From Book to Film

The documentary adapts Schtinter’s existing book, Last Movies, but also expands upon it. The film’s editing process was unique, limiting itself to footage taken directly from the films watched by the featured celebrities. Schtinter found that scenes from these films could often convey meaning in ways that surpassed his written descriptions. He notes that the film “seemed to create itself,” guided by the power of cinematic imagery.

Looking Ahead

Schtinter has hinted at the possibility of a sequel, tentatively titled Last Movies: Resurrection. He also acknowledges the potential for commercial opportunities, but expresses a desire to remain true to his artistic vision. Last Movies is a thought-provoking and unconventional documentary that challenges viewers to reconsider their understanding of history, celebrity, and the enduring power of cinema.