Shirley (2020)
R | 1h 47min | Biography, Drama, Thriller | Stars: Elisabeth Moss, Odessa Young, Michael Stuhlbarg
Synopsis: A famous horror writer finds inspiration for her next book after she and her husband take in a young couple.
Review: Elizabeth Moss continues to knock role after role clear out of the cinematic park. She is arguably the best actress of her generation working right now – and certainly the most under appreciated. In SHIRLEY she plays real-life author Shirley Jackson who is struggling with personal demons while trying to follow up her most succesful published work, The Lottery (1949). When a young couple – Rose and Fred – come to live with Shirley and her husband, Rose becomes a muse of sorts for Shirley. The two begin an oddly sensual relationship that adds to the movies unhinged tone.
It is not clear how close the performance is to the real Jackson but it was super fun to watch. If the character had been a work of fiction you would think she was some sort of sorceress or modern day witch. Jackson did dabble in mystic realms and there are points of that in the movie. But the way Moss is able to also capture those elements in her mannerism and vacant eyes is fascinating. At times she is terrifying at other times fragile and vulnerable.
There is a mystery intwined in the personal drama that could have been more prominent in the film but sometimes gets lost in the clutter. A young girl has gone missing from the local college campus. Foul play seems to be afoot and this is inspiration for Shirley. Her and Rose begin to look for clues while also using the info as research for the book. This could have been a very strong presence in the story but instead it is used almost as a fever dream in Shirley’s imagination. Almost to the point that you wonder what is real – in her mind – and what is delusion.
Rose and Shirley’s friendship is volatile and at times dangerous for Rose. But at the same time there is an attraction between the two that plays along the lines of intimate. I wouldn’t consider this a sexual thriller but at the same time there are sensual moments that are well directed and add texture to the overall plot. It is the 1950s so male promiscuity seems expected. Allowing these women the same indulgence feels freeing. These are not two timid housewives. Shirley especially needs to escape the domineering thumb of her husband.
Fans of bio-dramas – even obscure ones – and strong performances will enjoy this one. I think it plays better on the small screen for home streaming than it might have on the big screen. It is a tense and dark film that is more enjoyable in a personal setting. There are a few lingering questions that aren’t fully answered which could stir speculation and conversation. One thing for sure, Moss again gives us a character we will not soon forget.