Documentary
United States of America
Ayn Rand: A Sense of Life is a 1997 documentary film directed by Michael Paxton. The film traces the life and ideas of Ayn Rand, an influential philosopher and novelist.
The film begins with Rand's childhood in St. Petersburg, Russia, and her early fascination with the concept of individualism. It then moves on to her escape from Russia in 1926 and her subsequent arrival in the United States, where she found a new home and began writing novels and essays.
The major focus of the film is on Rand's philosophy of Objectivism, which emphasizes reason, individual rights, and laissez-faire capitalism. The film features interviews with Rand's friends and associates, archival footage, and scenes from her novels brought to life through animation.
The film covers the controversies surrounding Rand's ideas and persona, including her tumultuous affair with Nathaniel Branden, the founder of the Objectivist movement. It also explores her lasting influence on politics, economics, and popular culture.
Ayn Rand: A Sense of Life was well received by both critics and audiences, winning the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 1998. The film is a compelling portrait of a complex and controversial figure whose ideas continue to resonate in politics and society today.
