Film Review: Maudie (2016)
Maudie is a recent biopic that delves into the remarkable life of Canadian folk artist Maud Lewis (1903-1970). A joint Canadian-Irish production, the film stars Sally Hawkins as Maud and Ethan Hawke as her husband, Everett Lewis. It’s a tightly focused film with a small cast, reflecting the restricted life Maud experienced due to her chronic illness.
Set in Newfoundland, which stands in for Nova Scotia where Maud actually lived, the film features plenty of picturesque scenes.
Meet Maud
Maud Dowley is considered a burden by her aunt and brother, who treat her as an invalid. Even though she’s in her thirties, she relies entirely on her family. Born with physical deformities that developed into crippling arthritis, Maud is marginalized and isolated from her community.
Determined to change her life, she leaves her controlling family and answers an ad for a live-in housekeeper posted by local fish peddler Everett Lewis. Initially suspicious of her and her ailments, Everett eventually hires her. This marks the beginning of her life away from her family’s control, albeit now under Everett’s stern watch.
Everett and Maud’s Relationship
Everett is poor, illiterate, and rough around the edges. The tiny one-room house they share, with an attic for sleeping, raises eyebrows in the community. Maud dismisses Everett’s initial romantic advances, insisting on marriage before any intimacy. She has experienced loss before—a pregnancy that ended with the birth of a stillborn, deformed child who was taken away by her family immediately. This tragedy deeply impacts her.
Everett physically hits Maud once in the film in front of a work associate, a troubling act in their relationship. Despite this, they marry, and in this marriage, Maud finds the space and inspiration to paint. Everett, gruff as he is, supports her more than her family ever did. She begins painting their house, filling every surface, even the windows, with her colorful art.
Maud the Artist
Maud’s simple, vibrant paintings of flowers, birds, and nature catch the eye of a wealthy New Yorker on vacation. This patron’s interest helps launch Maud’s career as an artist, despite her continued financial struggles. Her unpretentious, folk-art style attracts New York collectors and tourists alike. Soon, people are flocking to buy her work, and she even makes a sale to Richard Nixon. Media attention grows, with TV crews and journalists visiting her home.
Challenges and Triumphs
As Maud’s fame increases, Everett feels increasingly overshadowed. He’s not accustomed to playing second fiddle, and he sometimes reacts angrily. Meanwhile, Maud’s health deteriorates, her worsening arthritis making it difficult to hold a brush. The strain on their marriage grows as they navigate her rising fame and his feelings of inadequacy.
Performance and Impact
The film boasts powerful performances, particularly from Sally Hawkins and Ethan Hawke. Their portrayal of Maud and Everett adds depth and complexity to the story, highlighting the intricacies of their relationship. Maudie is a visually stunning and emotionally challenging film that makes you ponder long after it ends. Maud Lewis’s story is one of resilience and finding joy amid adversity, making her a truly inspiring figure.
Content Note: Rated PG-13 for mild swearing, sexuality, and a depiction of spousal abuse.
Where to Watch: DVD, Starz, Starz Amazon Channel
