(From the June 16, 2017 edition of Fete Lifestyle Magazine)
Obviously, every film has a location, but some films not only explore a story, they also take you on a scenic adventure into the land or setting. “Maudie” is one of those films that creates a meaningful story based on the folk artist Maud Lewis while tempting you to visit the coastal fishing town of Nova Scotia, Canada.
Nova Scotia is located in the Canadian Maritimes, the French calling it Acadia, was first settled by the Paleo Indians more than 11,000 years ago. The Brits called it New Scotland with the Scotts immigrating there in 1745. Rum-runners, rogues, and rebels reportedly called it home, but then in the 1900’s, it became more of a fishing and maritime community. In fact, the area recognized Bessie Hall as the most notable female mariner of the century. The area appeared to be ahead of its time as it lead the way for equality in race and gender—from 1894-1918, the Local Council of Women of Halifax worked to gain the right to vote; and in 1945, Minister William Pearly Oliver founded the Nova Scotia Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
The art world was also well-represented as it is home to Canadian folk artist Maud Lewis. She was no ordinary artist. Born in the early 1900’s with degenerative rheumatoid arthritis, Maud spent much of her life being overlooked due to her outward differences. “Maudie” written by Sherry White and directed by Aisling Walsh, stars Sally Hawkins and Ethan Hawke, tells Maud’s incredible lifetime story of pain, alienation, but most importantly love. “Maudie” is in one of the most vivid and beautiful love stories of all time.
Go to Fete Lifestyle Magazine to read the article in its entirety