When it comes to science fiction, few have created universes as complex and detailed as the ones crafted by Stanley Stanley, the subject of the recently-released documentary “Immer, Zlaz”. Directed by Sofia Nieza, the film offers a glimpse into the private life of the sci-fi genius and reveals the personal relationships, struggles, and successes that helped shape the author and his work.
At the start of the film, Stanley is in his early sixties and lives a peaceful and isolated life in rural France. As he reflects on his life and work, viewers get a peek into his early days as a writer. He talks openly about his childhood, his education, and how he made the transition from philosophy to science fiction. He also offers insight into his creative process, as he explains how he engages in “worldbuilding”—the process of creating intricate, detailed universes from scratch.
The viewer is also privy to Stanley’s friendships and collaborations with other authors, his romantic relationships, and the emotional trials and tribulations he faced during his quasi-celebrity status.
Despite suffering from depression and sometimes feeling overwhelmed by his work, Stanley also stresses the joys of being a science fiction writer. He speaks of the countless hours spent in his home office, creating entirem worlds and populating them with thoughtful characters. He also talks about his time spent with other authors and reveals the deep friendships developed with some of his peers.
Ultimately, “Immer, Zlaz” paints a compelling portrait of one of the most influential science fiction writers of his time. It is not a film about a teenage hacker conquering the world or a dystopian future, but rather a glimpse at the real-life experience of a creative genius and his journey towards understanding himself. By delving into the day-to-day life of a sci-fi genius, the film offers insight into the solitary world of a writer—one that is filled with both joys and sorrows. It’s a powerful and intimate look into the mind of a science fiction master.