Martha Stewart, the well-known businesswoman and TV personality, has expressed her dissatisfaction with a new documentary that delves into her life and career, premiering on Netflix. In the film titled Martha, directed by RJ Cutler, Stewart, 83, criticizes the production, focus, and editing, despite her cooperation and extensive contribution of contemporary interviews.
Stewart, a prominent figure in US media, gave Cutler full access to her archive, but she was disappointed with how little of it was used in the final product. In an interview with The New York Times, she particularly took issue with the closing scenes of the documentary, where she felt misrepresented as a “lonely old lady” due to her physical condition at the time.
Cutler, known for his biographical works on various personalities, including Billie Eilish and Elton John, defended his film and praised Stewart for her courage in allowing him to create it. Despite her criticisms, Stewart acknowledged that the documentary resonated with young female viewers, empowering them with a message of strength and resilience.
Stewart’s complaints extended to the film’s score, cinematography, and focus on her 2004 trial and incarceration on felony charges. She believed these aspects overshadowed other important parts of her life story. However, she appreciated the documentary’s portrayal of her as a strong woman overcoming challenges and achieving success.
The director’s response to Stewart’s criticisms was one of pride in his work and admiration for Stewart’s willingness to share her story. This situation echoes a similar instance in 2021 when singer Alanis Morissette disowned a documentary about her life, claiming the filmmakers had misrepresented her story.