Eskimo Nell (1975)

While not a traditional auteur choice, Martin Campbell's "Eskimo Nell" (1975) deserves its place on a list of his best films for its sheer audacity and as a crucial early indicator of the director's developing craft and willingness to push boundaries. This controversial, darkly comedic exploitation film, set in the stark Alaskan wilderness, showcases Campbell's early mastery of creating a palpable atmosphere and eliciting raw, often unsettling performances from his cast. It’s a visceral and unflinching piece that, despite its challenging subject matter, demonstrates a keen visual eye and a developing confidence in tackling unconventional narratives, marking a significant, albeit unconventional, step in his directorial journey. Beyond its shock value, "Eskimo Nell" reveals Campbell's nascent talent for crafting memorable, if morally ambiguous, characters and his understanding of how to generate tension and draw the audience into uncomfortable situations. For those interested in a comprehensive appreciation of Martin Campbell's career, this film offers a fascinating, unvarnished glimpse into his directorial beginnings. It highlights the raw talent that would later be honed into the polished blockbuster filmmaking he is celebrated for, proving that even in his earliest, most controversial work, Campbell was already a director with a distinct point of view and a bold approach to storytelling.