Errol Morris, a renowned filmmaker recognized for his groundbreaking documentaries, returns to the limelight with his latest venture, “The Pigeon Tunnel.” This project stands in stark contrast to some of his previous, more eccentric works such as “Mr. Death” and “Tabloid.” Morris, with his signature style, takes us on a riveting journey as he sits down with David Cornwell, globally acknowledged as the celebrated author John le Carré. While many might associate Morris with pioneering modern film interview techniques, this documentary is unique in its approach. Here, Morris forgoes the generic and predictable structure of filmed conversations. Rather than probing into Cornwell's personal life or his financial triumphs, the documentary meticulously explores the life experiences and interpersonal relationships that shaped and influenced the captivating narratives penned down by le Carré. More specifically, it zeroes in on how Cornwell's intricate relationship with his father cast ripples across his literary universe, subsequently leaving an indelible mark on the genre of spy fiction.
“The Pigeon Tunnel” is a title layered with profound significance. While it directly references Cornwell’s autobiographical work, "The Pigeon Tunnel: Stories from My Life," it also pays homage to a recurring thematic undertone used by Cornwell in several of his books. This evocative phrase can be traced back to Cornwell's younger days in France. Here, he reminisces about witnessing affluent patrons engaging in a peculiar sport of shooting pigeons as they emerged from a tunnel, taking flight over the vast expanse of the Mediterranean. This activity, however, had a dark twist. The pigeons, cultivated on adjacent rooftops, were herded through the tunnel, only to be unexpectedly ambushed and shot down. This imagery serves as a compelling metaphor, reminiscent of the manipulated and rigged scenarios commonly embedded in le Carré’s tales. It paints a picture of characters believing in their freedom, only to be ensnared in a preordained trap.
Diving deep into Cornwell's background, the narrative intertwines his real-life experiences with espionage, which later became the bedrock of his illustrious authorial journey. At its heart, the documentary unravels tales of deception and treachery, most notably as Cornwell sheds light on his father, Ronnie Cornwell. Ronnie emerges as a man of audacity, once even demanding monetary compensation from his son for his role as a father. Yet, Cornwell's descriptions of his father are tinged with the eloquence and flair of a seasoned writer. One standout remark, “Whether he believed in God is mysterious, but he was certain God believed in him,” encapsulates the unparalleled confidence and grandiosity that defined Ronnie.
It's evident that Cornwell's early encounters with his father's duplicitous nature sowed the seeds of understanding the dualities inherent in human behavior. Such realizations are foundational to both espionage activities and the art of storytelling. A particularly striking segment in “The Pigeon Tunnel” showcases a brief, introspective moment. Here, Cornwell subtly insinuates that interviewers, including Morris himself, often embark on these journeys as a means of personal self-discovery. Paired closely with a reflective tale about Ronnie, it propels viewers to ponder upon Morris's personal motivations and potential inspirations drawn from his own paternal relationships.
The documentary's focus, while intensely centered around Ronnie Cornwell and the rich themes his life embodies – such as deception, betrayal, and greed – may not satiate those craving a comprehensive overview of le Carré’s entire literary oeuvre. But it's clear that Morris and Cornwell have charted a distinct course for "The Pigeon Tunnel." It isn't just a backdrop or an appendix to le Carré's celebrated works. It endeavors to provide viewers with a deep, insightful perspective on how even the most sophisticated and enthralling of spy tales can trace their origins back to the age-old dynamics between a father and his offspring.
