I had never heard of Andrea Arnold until I took a “Writing for Film” course. My friend Syd convinced me that I’d like it– because I like writing, and I like Syd, so what’s not to like?  Ultimately, it’s been a really interesting experience for me. It’s such a different form of writing, but it’s been great to feel out. I love that there are all these free formatting programs! (I use Celtx, FYI aspiring screenwriters.) It’s so much more convenient than indenting a million times…

Anyway, we watched Arnold’s “Fish Tank” outside of class to discuss ‘the relentless character.’ Basically, the character that will never quit, in spite of constant obstacles. Centered on a poor, teenage girl growing up in England, I felt like the director- who is also the writer – totally GOT what it’s like to grow up and up and up.  It was fantastic. Michael Fassbender, as always, was gorgeous. I honestly could watch clips of him silently walking around and feel contented. He’s SUCH a manly man. (Not a good character in this film, but Syd and I still  were really into it…Obsession taken too far?)

We then watched Arnold’s short film “wasp” in class. It was, beyond a shadow of a doubt, one of the most incredible performances I’ve ever seen from an actress. I LOVED it. It made me want to say words like, raw, and gritty, and real. I’ve inserted a link to it on this page. It’s only 20 minutes long, and it is beyond worth taking some time out of your day to watch it.

I was at a birthday party the other week, and forced the birthday girl to watch it. (That’s a good friend.) I’m telling ya, it was THAT impactful to me! I feel like Arnold gets women, and she gets life. It’s the first time in a while that I’ve watched a woman and thought, okay, okay. This isn’t an actress portrayinggggg a role. This is an actress BEING and living and feeling her role. It was brilliant!

The mother in this role is so flawed, but also, at her core, such a loving mother. I think it’s great to see that type of push and pull. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ol8imKa9yd8

If you don’t trust me, trust the Academy. <–