If you’re a regular reader of this site, odds are you’re a fan of a well-acted, small-scale drama. And in a world dominated by superhero franchises, sequels, reboots, and tentpoles, there seems to be fewer and fewer of these prestige dramas around the industry. Well, if that’s something you’re into, then get ready for “Herself.”
READ MORE: ‘Herself’: A Delicately Empathetic Portrayal Of Rebuilding Your Self [Sundance Review]
As seen in the trailer for “Herself,” filmmaker Phyllida Lloyd returns with a solid family drama that doesn’t aim to do much more than attract people that want to feel something with their films. The feature follows the story of Sandra, a young mother that is doing whatever it takes to supply a happy and safe home for her two daughters. With everyday struggles like money issues and a terrible ex, the deck seems stacked against Sandra, but she is determined to do whatever it takes to make her dreams a reality.
The film stars Clare Dunne, Conleth Hill, and Cathy Belton. As mentioned, “Herself” is directed by Phyllida Lloyd, who is probably best known for her previous two films, “Mamma Mia!” and “The Iron Lady.” However, it’s been nearly a decade since Lloyd’s most recent feature, the aforementioned, award-winning “The Iron Lady.” “Herself” is actually co-written by actress Clare Dunne, alongside Malcolm Campbell.
“Herself” is set to arrive at the BFI London Film Festival on October 8 before arriving in UK and Irish cinemas on October 16. A full international release schedule has yet to be announced.
Here’s the synopsis:
Sandra (Clare Dunne), on the surface of it, is a young Mum struggling to provide her two young daughters with a warm, safe, happy home to grow up in. Beneath the surface, Sandra has a steely determination to change their lives for the better and when it becomes clear that the local council won’t provide that home, she decides to build it herself from scratch. With very little income to speak of and no savings, Sandra must use all her ingenuity to make her ambitious dream a reality. At the same time, she must escape the grip of her possessive ex-husband and keep him away from her and her girls. The lionhearted Sandra draws together a community of friends to support her and lend a helping hand and it is the kindness and generosity of these people and the love of her young daughters that help build her own strength and sense of self. With a cast that also includes Harriet Walter and Conleth Hill, HERSELF is the outstanding new film from Phyllida Lloyd, acclaimed director of ‘The Iron Lady’ and ‘Mamma Mia!’.