Herself

 

Herself 2020

• Director: Phyllida Lloyd
• Seen by this director – Mamma Mia
• Based on the book: no
• Cast: Clare Dunne, Molly McCann, Ruby Rose O’Hara, Ian Lloyd Anderson, Harriet Walter, Cathy Belton,
• Personal “oh yeah him/her” reaction, i.e. have seen this actor in:
• Harriet Walter - Doctor Who, Rocket Man, Star Wars the Force Awakens, London Spy, Downton Abbey, Young Victoria, Atonement, Babel, Bright Young Things, Keep the Aspidistras Flying, Sense and Sensibility
• Why? The director. Sounds good. Good reviews.
• Seen: 12 August 2023      

       Sandra (Dunne) has two small daughters (McCann and O’Hara) and an abusive husband Gary (Anderson). She finally leaves him but becomes desperate when she can’t find a place to live. For now she’s in a hotel paid for by family services. She finally decides to build her own house with the help and support of old friends and new.

       Problems abound, especially her husband who insists they should get back together and even takes her to court for custody of the girls.

       It’s a film filled with despair, cruelty, kindness, hope and resilience, performed by excellent actors, none but Walters previously known to me. 

4 ½ * of 5