MAUDIE

Maudie is a biographical film which surrounds famed Canadian folk artist Maude Lewis and thirteen years in the making, it has definitely been worth the wait.

Born in 1903, Maude suffered from rheumatoid arthritis all her life and faced with this debilitating disease and the driving energy to express herself, began her career by selling painted cards. An unlikely relationship flourished with the fish-peddler who employed her as his housekeeper which eventually transitioned into marriage.

Lovingly made and receiving rave reviews at The Toronto Film Festival, this cinematic gem is the best film of the year. Profoundly moving, it takes a very special cast to create movie splendour with such powerful characters. Affecting performances by an extraordinary cast led by Sally Hawkins in an Oscar-worthy performance should ensure audiences stand up and cheer.

Ethan Hawke is also perfectly cast as Everett Lewis, her cankerous husband who secretly loved Maude dearly until her death in 1970 of emphysema.

This inspirational and triumphant story of the resilience of the human spirit also conveys the resounding message that life can be fulfilling with just the bare necessities of life. (MMo)

★★★★1/2