Martha Coolidge’s ‘Not a Pretty Picture’ Resurfaces in a Powerful Restoration

Director Martha Coolidge’s groundbreaking 1976 film, ‘Not a Pretty Picture,’ is reissued in a new 4K restoration, allowing viewers to witness an artist reclaiming control over a traumatic event. This reissue serves as a tribute to a trailblazing filmmaker who has been largely overlooked in the male-dominated corridors of cinema studies.

Martha Coolidge’s ‘Not a Pretty Picture’ Resurfaces in a Powerful Restoration

Director Martha Coolidge’s groundbreaking 1976 film, ‘Not a Pretty Picture,’ exemplifies the power of art in making sense of the world and personal experiences. This article explores the recent reissue of the film in a new 4K restoration, allowing viewers to witness an artist reclaiming control over a traumatic event. It also serves as a tribute to Martha Coolidge, a trailblazing filmmaker who has been largely overlooked in the male-dominated corridors of cinema studies.

Martha Coolidge’s ‘Not a Pretty Picture’ is a bold exploration of trauma, going beyond her personal recollections of a violent event from her past. This documentary hybrid incorporates the memories of her former roommate and cast members who draw upon their own experiences with sexual assault. Through dramatic reenactments, interviews, and on-set discussions, Coolidge questions her own interpretations and motivations while relentlessly rewriting scenes. As viewers witness the movie being made, they also witness an artist finding catharsis through the act of creation.

A Rediscovered Gem: Martha Coolidge’s Work

For years, ‘Not a Pretty Picture’ was out of circulation, but the recent 4K restoration brings this powerful film back to the spotlight. Its reissue at the Brattle Theatre, accompanied by a mini-retrospective of Coolidge’s work, offers a long-overdue tribute to a pioneering filmmaker. Martha Coolidge, who became the first female president of the Director’s Guild of America, faced significant obstacles in her career, highlighting the challenges female directors have historically encountered. However, the current resurgence of interest in filmmakers from Coolidge’s era is heartening, as a new generation of cinephiles embraces their work.

Coolidge’s earlier documentary short, ‘Old-Fashioned Woman,’ provides a glimpse into the changing roles of women in the late 19th century. Through an intimate conversation with her grandmother, Coolidge delves into the impact of second wave feminism and landmark court cases like Roe vs. Wade. Despite her grandmother’s unexpected progressive views, Coolidge’s willingness to abandon preconceived notions is evident. This same spirit of exploration carries over into ‘Not a Pretty Picture,’ making it a valuable and thought-provoking experience.

Martha Coolidge’s Hollywood Ventures

After ‘Not a Pretty Picture,’ Martha Coolidge ventured into Hollywood, directing two beloved comedies of the 1980s. ‘Valley Girl,’ with its impossibly young Nicolas Cage, captures the essence of innocent ardor, while ‘Real Genius’ offers a surprisingly tender college romp. The latter film, likened to ‘Revenge of the Nerds’ without the problematic elements, showcases Coolidge’s ability to create engaging and memorable characters.

A Favorite: ‘Rambling Rose’

Among Martha Coolidge’s filmography, ‘Rambling Rose’ holds a special place. Adapted from Calder Willingham’s novel, the film explores themes of sexual abuse and the societal dynamics that empower men to impose their will on women. With Laura Dern’s raw and unrefined performance as the promiscuous housekeeper, the film delves into the impact of her presence on a small Southern town. Diane Ladd, Dern’s real-life mother, provides a moral anchor as the lady of the house. Despite its nostalgic trappings, ‘Rambling Rose’ tackles challenging subject matter with grace and honesty.

Conclusion: Celebrating Martha Coolidge’s Work

The reissuing of Martha Coolidge’s ‘Not a Pretty Picture’ in a new 4K restoration offers a chance for audiences to experience a powerful and introspective film. Coolidge’s fearless exploration of her own trauma, along with her subsequent ventures in Hollywood, highlights her talent as a filmmaker and her contributions to cinema. As the industry continues to embrace female directors from Coolidge’s era, it is important to recognize and celebrate their groundbreaking work.