Unveiling the Genius: Exploring George Platt Lynes’ Legacy in Film – A Captivating Review by Eye For Film

When photography first appeared, it was like a shiny new toy; it quickly became a practical way to capture information. It took years for people to start seeing it as art. Influential figures like Alfred Stieglitz, Julia Margaret Cameron, and Ansel Adams shaped photography’s language. Then there was George Platt Lynes, a man whose work drew upon early Renaissance painting techniques, especially the way light outlines the human form. He primarily focused on male nudes, a perspective that still resonates today. Unfortunately, because he was openly gay in the 1930s, Lynes’ name faded from public memory.

A documentary by Sam Shahid aims to change that. It begins with Lynes destroying much of his early work shortly before his death, yet he left behind a wealth of material. Shahid showcases Lynes’ unique vision and challenges the lines between art and pornography. Lynes didn’t just capture his subjects; he treated them like architectural forms, fascinated by the details of muscle and strength. Even the most striking poses held a sense of sensuality. His portraits of women, although fewer, are bold and devoid of traditional femininity norms.

Interestingly, Lynes initially aspired to be a writer. His photographs tell stories, providing rich content for Shahid’s documentary. The film traces Lynes’ life, covering his time in Paris with Gertrude Stein, his decision to abandon Yale, and his long-term relationship with Monroe Wheeler. It captures the high points, such as his glamorous parties in New York and his foray into Hollywood, as well as the hardships of his later years back in NYC.

While Lynes faced loneliness later in life, he was far from unloved. The film doesn’t shy away from discussing his complicated relationships. His brother Russell embodied a traditional lifestyle, and their family connection remains a poignant part of Lynes’ story. Shahid also interviews key individuals from Lynes’ life, including painter Bernard Perlin, who still feels emotional about his late friend. A representative from the Kinsey Institute adds context about their plan to protect Lynes’ work.

Lynes may not have been the most likable character, but his courage and authenticity draw you in. His work feels ahead of its time, showcasing a unique perspective that other artists would later imitate. His method of finding models—often at the YMCA or among sailors and athletes—has become a cliché, but Lynes’ creations were the originals. His photographs daringly addressed interracial relationships, challenging societal taboos of the mid-20th century.

“Hidden Master” intertwines Lynes’ life with significant social and artistic movements, shining a light on a pivotal yet overlooked figure in photography. His images provide a deeper understanding of the art world and its evolution.



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