Maudie - 4 Stars

Tragically beautiful story of artist Maudie is sure to be an award-season pick.

An arthritic Nova Scotia woman works as a housekeeper while she hones her skills as an artist and eventually becomes a beloved figure in the community.

Sally Hawkings gives a masterful performance in the leading role, capturing the naive innocence, yet worldweary appearance of the character stunningly. Ethan Hawke is equally as good as a awkward, emotionally repressed fisherman. The script is strong, but its the performances and direction that make this film work. The film focuses primarily on two characters - their interactions, evolving relationship and eventual dependence. It’s a heartbreaking story. The cinematography is excellent, as is the score - both adding to the film’s tone without distracting from the performances.

Overall an excellent, yet depressing film with two extraordinary performances.

4 Stars

Review by Benjamin Maio Mackay

Screening courtesy of Palace Nova Cinemas