A new film, Moss & Freud, offers an intimate look at the unlikely bond between British artist Lucian Freud and supermodel Kate Moss. Both icons of British culture, Freud and Moss were famous for their debauched lifestyles, but their collaboration in 2002 had a profound impact on both their lives. The resulting nude portrait sold for almost £4 million at auction in 2005, yet neither was particularly fond of it.
The Story Behind the Canvas
The film, directed by James Lucas, delves into the months-long sittings, revealing how the charming yet irascible Freud, played by Sir Derek Jacobi, became a father figure to the troubled Moss, portrayed by Ellie Bamber. At the height of her success, Moss was still scarred by past sexual abuse, while Freud, who died in 2011, was known for his brutal treatment of his own children.
Authenticity and Collaboration
The film boasts authenticity with Moss herself as co-producer, along with input from Freud's aide David Dawson and his daughter Bella. Moss's personal hairdresser James Brown also contributed as a stylist. Lucas, who was on the fringes of the Primrose Hill set, wrote to Moss after becoming obsessed with the story. She responded quickly, and the script was developed with her close involvement.
Lucas recalls, 'I grew up with a poster of Kate on my wall, and then I found myself at her house where she's showing me this incredible tattoo that Freud created 20 years ago.'
Key Themes in the Film
The film begins with Moss alone in Berlin, visiting a swingers' club before meeting Freud. He demands she be available weekly, and despite her jet-set lifestyle, she commits, turning down work for the first time. Their sessions become an anchor for her. Freud, initially dismissive of her work, grows fond of her, and their friendship deepens over opium, champagne, and meals at Clarke's. However, their relationship remains platonic, despite rumours.
Lucas notes, 'This piece isn't a powder puff for either of them. With Kate it shows a person who's desperately unhappy, but she slowly regains purpose.'
Memorable Moments
A key scene occurs at Moss's infamous 30th birthday party at Claridge's, themed 'The Beautiful and The Damned'. Freud ignores his daughter Bella, focusing on Moss, but becomes jealous when he sees her with boyfriend Jefferson Hack. Moss was pregnant with their daughter Lila at the time.
The film also features Moss's iconic outfits, with some original designer pieces used. Casting was straightforward: Lucas saw Ellie Bamber's photo and immediately saw the resemblance. Ian McKellen suggested Derek Jacobi for Freud, who eagerly accepted.
Lucas wrote his first script in Freud's studio, which was recreated for the film. David Dawson provided guidance on Freud's painting technique, even painting two strokes on the original portrait, bringing the project full circle.
Moss & Freud is released in cinemas on 29 May.
