Herself

Herself is an inspiring and emotionally rich drama directed by Phyllida Lloyd and premiered in 2020. Starring Molly McCann, Clare Dunne, and Ruby Rose O'Hara, the film bravely delves into the dark corners of domestic abuse and the struggle for personal and financial independence, brightened by an irrepressible spirit of hope and determination.

The narrative thrust of the film is centred on the character of Sandra (played by Clare Dunne), a young mother of two little girls – Molly (Molly McCann) and Emma (Ruby Rose O’Hara). Sandra works as a cleaner in Dublin, her earnest efforts not just a reflection of her need to make ends meet, but also her desire to free her family from a life marked by domestic violence and controlled by a manipulative, abusive ex-husband.

After escaping from her traumatic life, Sandra's primary goal is to secure a safe and stable home for her daughters. While, in a practical sense, this means navigating a labyrinth of bureaucratic red tape and social welfare, the film places much more emphasis on what this home represents symbolically – a place of safety, independence, stability, and the opportunity to build a brighter future for herself and her children.

Herself explores the theme of resilience in the face of adversity. Sandra's journey is one of rediscovery and confidence-building, fueled by a fierce determination to protect her daughters. As Sandra works tirelessly to construct a new house from scratch, it becomes a metaphor for rebuilding her life. She emerges as a strong, capable woman who refuses to let her circumstances define her existence.

The brilliance of Clare Dunne's performance adds depth to the story, making Sandra not just a character in a film but a symbol of every woman who has endured and fought against the horrors of domestic violence. Molly McCann and Ruby Rose O'Hara, as Sandra’s daughters, beautifully capture the innocence, confusion and courage that children often display in situations beyond their understanding.

Parallel to the dark and intense themes of the film are moments of light-hearted camaraderie and emotional revelation. A testament to the power of community, Herself shows how even the most insurmountable personal challenges can be overcome with help from unexpected quarters. Sandra is not fighting her battle alone; the support she receives from her employer and a generous acquaintance, as well as other members of her community, plays a pivotal role in her pursuit of a better life.

Importantly, the writing and direction ensure a balanced approach to the depiction of trauma and triumph. It does not shy away from showing Sandra's struggles or the devastating impact of domestic abuse, yet also celebrates her victories, small and large, managing to be uplifting without ever tipping into melodrama. Sandra's journey is gritty and real, making the story all the more impactful.

Phyllida Lloyd, best known for her work on Mamma Mia and The Iron Lady, has expertly crafted a film that centres women's experiences and appeals to a broad audience. While Herself confronts the grim realities of domestic violence, it also shares a beautifully uplifting story of resilience and community. Studded with moments of warmth, friendship, and courage, the film serves as a beacon of hope that no dream is too big, no hurdle too daunting, when one has determination and the right support.

Viewers of Herself are likely to leave with conflicting feelings; of sadness for the violence and adversity Sandra must face, and of admiration for her strength and tenacity. It is a film that stirs the heart and provokes thought, underlining the importance of empathy, support, and understanding in helping individuals overcome their adversities.

In conclusion, Herself is a profoundly human and touching story that uses a personal lens to shed light on wider societal issues. Through the character of Sandra, we see both the harsh realities of domestic abuse and the power of hope and perseverance. A poignant, thought-provoking tale of resilience, it is surely a film that leaves a lasting impression.