Elizabeth Taylor is being candid about her life and loves in a new HBO documentary called Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes. The movie premieres at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 11 and will later be available for streaming on August 3 on Max. The documentary showcases Taylor’s life story using images, videos, and film clips with audio from interviews conducted by journalist Richard Meryman in 1964 and a later interview in 1985 with Dominick Dunne. This glimpse into the life of the Hollywood icon, who passed away in 2011 at 78, offers a unique and revealing perspective.
In the documentary, Taylor opens up about her public image and personal life, expressing her thoughts on how she is perceived. She shares details about her marriages, including her regrets and struggles, shedding light on her relationships. Taylor discusses her marriages to Conrad Hilton Jr., Michael Wilding, Mike Todd, and Eddie Fisher, providing insight into the challenges she faced in her personal life.
Taylor’s relationship with Eddie Fisher, who was Todd’s best friend and married to actress Debbie Reynolds at the time, is a focal point in the documentary. She reflects on her marriage to Fisher as a big mistake and a regrettable decision. Despite their connection through Todd, Taylor admits that she never truly loved Fisher and felt sorry for him, indicating that their relationship was not based on true love.
The documentary also delves into Taylor’s relationship with Richard Burton, whom she met while filming “Cleopatra.” Their initial encounter was not a fairy-tale romance, as Taylor recalls Burton being extremely hungover. Despite their rocky start, Taylor and Burton’s relationship became iconic in Hollywood history, showcasing the complexities of love and passion.
Beyond her personal life, Taylor discusses her career, famous costars, and her AIDS activism. She addresses the challenges she faced in being taken seriously as an actress and reflects on her Oscar wins, including the one she received after battling pneumonia during the filming of “Cleopatra.” Taylor’s dedication to her craft and her advocacy work are highlighted in the documentary, showcasing her multifaceted talents and contributions to the industry.
Despite the ups and downs of her personal life, Taylor’s legacy as one of Hollywood’s brightest stars shines through in “The Lost Tapes.” The documentary offers a poignant and intimate look at the life of a true icon, capturing the essence of Elizabeth Taylor beyond the glamour and fame. Through her own words and experiences, Taylor’s story resonates with audiences, leaving a lasting impact on those who admire her work and spirit.