To Walk Invisible: The Bronte Sisters

To Walk Invisible: The Bronte Sisters is a heartrending British drama film that strives to offer a glimpse into the extraordinary lives of the literary legends, the Bronte sisters. The film, which was released in 2016 and directed by Sally Wainwright, stars Finn Atkins, Charlie Murphy, and Chloe Pirrie who portray the triumvirate of Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Bronte respectively.

This compelling BBC-made biopic is an intricate exploration of the challenging and tormented lives of the Bronte sisters during the middle of the 19th century. Not only does it boldly delve into the genius, trials, and triumphs of the sisters, but it also presents a stark vision of the stifling conventions and norms set forth by Victorian society.

The setting is intelligently constructed in Haworth, West Yorkshire - the very place the Bronte family lived which is now a literary shrine attracting tourists. In addition to creating an authentically atmospheric framework, the movie thrives on its detailed evocation of the era's societal expectations, physical surroundings, and socio-economic conditions, drawing the viewers into the very heart of the Bronte story.

To Walk Invisible illustrates the authors' life and their transformative journey from their humble lives in rural England to becoming renowned authors whose works are immortalized in the annals of English literature. The film effectively brings to light their struggle to pen down their profound ideas and portrays the disdain and skepticism they faced while trying to get published, under male pseudonyms.

Finn Atkins as Charlotte Bronte gives a captivating performance, embodying the persistence, intelligence, and resilience of the eldest sister. She seamlessly portrays her character's aspiration to break away from the typical roles females usually played in society, showing her drive to achieve her literary dreams.

Charlie Murphy, as Emily Bronte, presents a compelling picture of the mysterious and enigmatic middle sister. Emily's persistence and fiercely independent spirit that ultimately led to the creation of her masterpiece 'Wuthering Heights' are portrayed with passion and accuracy. Her performance sails effortlessly from Emily's quiet, reserved demeanor to her intense writing persona, providing layered depth to her character.

Chloe Pirrie's reprisal of Anne Bronte is gently understated yet emotionally robust. Anne, being the youngest, is often overshadowed by the towering accomplishments of her older sisters. However, the film dedicates enough screen time to her complex journey of writing 'The Tenant of Wildfell Hall'.

The movie also juggles the family turmoil led by their alcoholic and erratically brilliant brother Branwell, well portrayed by Adam Nagaitis. It showcases how Branwell’s creeping madness, intertwined with his vices, affects and shapes the lives of the Bronte sisters. It is Branwell's devastating decline that becomes the catalyst for the sisters' urgent need to work on their novels and escape from their realities.

Wainwright's direction beautifully incorporates the sharp contrast between the sisters’ constricted lives in rural 19th century England and the vast, rich worlds they wove within their novels. The juxtaposition between their quiet home-bound lives and the dramatic landscapes of their imagination keep the film engaging and thought-provoking.

Detailed cinematic hues give the film a launched appearance reflecting the gloomy, rustic environment coupled with the subtle yet expressive performances by the cast paint a compelling portrait of the lives of these inspirational and beloved authors. The raw honesty and authenticity in their portrayal bind the film together, making it an excellent tribute to the celebrated Bronte sisters.

To Walk Invisible: The Bronte Sisters is not just about the journey of three women, it is about their undefeatable spirit, their resilience, and their unflinching determination against all odds. It doesn't shy away from the hardness of their lives but rather projects it clearly, emphasizing how these challenging circumstances became a springboard for their creativity.

Whether you're a Bronte fan, an admirer of biographical drama, a literature aficionado, or simply a lover of thoughtfully made films, this movie is bound to captivate you with its true-to-life portrayal of one of literature's most remarkable triumvirates. It's a poignant, multi-dimensional viewing experience that brings you closer than ever to the Bronte sisters, their masterpieces, and their challenging truths.