Marianne & Leonard: Words of Love 12A

“Haunting… a thoughtful musing on lovers past and gone, and a bygone era of hopes and dreams that packs an emotional punch.” – Little White Lies.

Nick Broomfield’s moving documentary tells the beautiful, tragic story of the love affair and life-long bond between Leonard Cohen and the woman who inspired one of his most famous songs, Marianne Ihlen.

Their love began on the idyllic Greek island of Hydra in 1960 as part of a bohemian community of foreign artists, writers and musicians. The film follows their relationship from the early days on Hydra, a time of ‘free love’ and open marriage, to how their love evolved when Leonard became a successful musician.

Marianne and Leonard's was a love story that would continue for the rest of their lives. Along the way we learn of the tragedy that befell those who could not survive the beauty of Hydra, the highs and lows of Leonard’s career, and the inspirational power that Marianne possessed.

Marianne and Leonard died three months apart.