DVD Corner

The Storms Of Jeremy Thomas DVD Review

“The Storms Of Jeremy Thomas” is an intimate documentary.

Directed, produced, recorded, photographed, and written by Mark Cousins, “The Storms Of Jeremy Thomas” is a documentary film on the titular British producer. Cousins joins Thomas on a road trip to the Cannes Film Festival. As they see the sights along the way, the two discuss Jeremy’s family in the movie business, indie cinema, road movies, driving, politics and sexuality in his cinematic productions, his battle with cancer, stardom, pushing boundaries, and general life and career tidbits. There are sporadic interviews from the likes of Tilda Swinton and Debra Winger along with clips from films Thomas worked on (and clips that correlate with discussions). For example, there are many cuts to scenes from Nicolas Roeg’s “Eureka” throughout.

You may not know the name, but Jeremy Thomas has produced over 60 films over the years. He’s worked with many of the great directors like Nicolas Roeg, Bernardo Bertolucci, David Cronenberg, Stephen Frears, and Takashi Miike and earned an Oscar for “The Last Emperor.” Director Mark Cousins turns the camera on Thomas to not only pay homage to the legendary producer, but to get to know him more in this conversational documentary. 

It takes a little while to get into the rhythm of the documentary as it sometimes feels like you are watching a feature-length visual essay mixed with “Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee.” Once it gets rolling, you’ll find yourself getting drawn into this intimate portrait of an aging, creative producer who has accomplished so much in life. Cousins does tend to come off as a bit of an over eager fanboy at times (especially with the overly dramatic narration and the bombardment of questions), but his enthusiasm for his subject is infectious and makes you want to re-watch (or seek out) films Thomas has worked on. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.78:1. Grade: B

Audio Track: 5.1 Surround and 2.0 Stereo. Grade: B+
Extras include a theatrical trailer and trailers for other Cohen Media titles.

October 22, 2023 - Posted by nicklyons1 | DVD review | Bernardo Bertolucci, documentary, Jeremy Thomas, Mark Cousins, The Storms Of Jeremy Thomas DVD Review