Maudie (2016)

Maudie Poster

Canadian folk artist Maud Lewis falls in love with a fishmonger while working for him as a live-in housekeeper.

Introduction to "Maudie"
"Maudie", released in 2016, is a biographical romantic drama film directed by Aisling Walsh and composed by Sherry White. It informs the heartfelt and extensive story of Maude Lewis, a Canadian folk artist with a severe rheumatoid arthritis disability, and her unanticipated path to becoming a beloved figure in the art world. The plot focuses on her life and relationships, particularly with her husband, Everett Lewis, against the background of rural Nova Scotia. Sally Hawkins provides a critically well-known efficiency as Maud Lewis, and Ethan Hawke plays her partner.

Plot Overview
The film opens with Maude Dowley (Maud Lewis) living with her overprotective family in Nova Scotia after her parents' death. Fighting with her impairment, Maud looks for independence and discovers an opportunity to work as a live-in house cleaner for Everett Lewis, a reclusive fish peddler. Though Everett is gruff and initially deals with Maud harshly, she endures and soon starts to change the small home with her brilliant, happy paintings.

Through the changing seasons, Maudie's story unfolds as her paintings begin to get attention from the neighborhood and beyond. Her joyful depictions of life in rural Nova Scotia resonate with individuals, and she starts offering her art to residents and travelers, slowly gaining recognition. The film poignantly illustrates the evolving relationship in between Maud and Everett; what started as a practical plan slowly develops into a deep love in between two outsiders.

As Maud's credibility grows, a televised interview expands her popularity, causing a check out from then-Vice President Richard Nixon who commissions her to paint for him. The attention serves as a testament to Maud's victory over hardship and her extraordinary spirit. Throughout this journey, her physical condition deteriorates, yet her will to create and live life on her own terms never ever subsides.

Themes and Characterization
"Maudie" explores themes of resilience, beauty in simpleness, and the power of creative expression. Maud Lewis's life showcases the strength of the human spirit in dealing with physical and social difficulties. She navigates her special needs, her tumultuous marriage, and societal judgment with amazing grace and decision.

The film also provides a deep, human take a look at private character: Maud, with her indomitable spirit, brings color and happiness to the lives of those around her, in addition to those who would pertain to admire her art. Everett, at first severe and emotionally shut off, is changed by Maud's persistent positivity and love, revealing a vulnerability and capability for modification that improves their bond.

Cinematography and Setting
Visual storytelling plays a crucial role in "Maudie". The stark, extensive landscapes of Nova Scotia supply a canvas versus which Maud's vibrant and simplified paintings starkly contrast. The film's cinematography catches the appeal of the environment that inspires her works. The director and cinematographer craft each frame with attention to information, mirroring the way Maud paints her environments.

Conclusion and Reception
"Maudie" delivers a powerful and heartening story of love, art, and the strength of the human spirit. Sally Hawkins's portrayal of Maud Lewis made her prevalent accolades for her nuanced, heartfelt performance. The movie speaks with the extraordinary life of Maud Lewis, highlighting her humble beginnings and ascent to being an iconic folk artist, whose tradition continues to influence.

Critics and audiences praised the movie for its gentle storytelling, emotional depth, and the impressive on-screen chemistry in between Hawkins and Hawke. "Maudie" stands apart as both a tender love story and a celebration of a woman whose enduring spirit could not be moistened by the obstacles she dealt with, turning an isolated presence into a life that touched many others through her art.

Top Cast

  • Sally Hawkins (small)
    Sally Hawkins
    Maud Lewis
  • Ethan Hawke (small)
    Ethan Hawke
    Everett Lewis
  • Gabrielle Rose (small)
    Gabrielle Rose
    Aunt Ida
  • Billy MacLellan (small)
    Billy MacLellan
    Frank
  • Zachary Bennett (small)
    Zachary Bennett
    Charles Dowley
  • Kari Matchett (small)
    Kari Matchett
    Sandra
  • David Feehan (small)
    David Feehan
    Paul
  • Lawrence Barry (small)
    Lawrence Barry
    Mr. Davis (Shopkeeper)
  • Marthe Bernard (small)
    Marthe Bernard
    Kay
  • Greg Malone
    Mr. Hill
  • Nik Sexton (small)
    Nik Sexton
    Steven (CBC Reporter)