Movie Screening

 Vita & Virginia(2018)

Hello everyone, This blog is responding to a thinking activity task assigned by Prakruti Ma'am. which is based on Movie Screening of Vita & Virginia 2018 as part of studying Virginia Woolf's novel ‘Orlando’.

Introduction

The Vita & Virginia film, based on Eileen Atkins' play, is a 2018 cinematic exploration into the passionate and complex relationship that Virginia Woolf shared with Vita Sackville-West. Letters, societal commentary, and deeply personal struggles were all woven into the tapestry of this film that was inspired by Woolf's iconic novel Orlando. We take this lens to the ways letters are both tools of communication and narrative and to diverse perspectives on relationships and society, and to an evaluation of how Virginia Woolf's emotional depth and bond with Vita Sackville-West were portrayed. 

#How do the letters function not only as a medium of communication between the two central characters but also as narrative tool within the film?

The letters by Vita and Virginia are central to this film. Not only are they being used as a medium in their communication but also through them, the structure which propels the story, is brought into action through the letters. Button's screenplay has well used these letters to inform the viewers about the various changes that their relationship sees from admiration to romantic entangle. The eloquence coupled with the emotional depth behind these letters shows the intellectual/emotional bond that fuels their bond.

For instance, in one of Virginia’s letters, she writes, 

“You have broken my defenses, and I don’t resent it.” (Debecki and Woolf)

This line encapsulates Virginia’s vulnerability and the transformative impact Vita has on her. These letters are not merely exchanges of words but windows into their innermost thoughts, allowing the audience to experience their growing intimacy.

Letter writing is a cinematic feat, beyond words. She used voiceovers and montages to breathe life into those letters, interplaying the lyrical prose that Woolf wrote with scenes that symbolizes longing and connection for added emotional depth and for richness of narrative.

#Discuss some of the views regarding marriage, relationship and the role of society presented by the various characters in the film.

The movie depicts divergent views of marriage and love, reflecting the complexity of the 1920s social mores and individual desires. Vita, is one who defies the convention. She is married to Harold Nicolson but has no qualms about flirting with Virginia, challenging the social institution of marriage. 

Vita’s declaration, “I’ve never been able to confine myself to one kind of love,” underscores her fluid and expansive view of love. (Debecki and Woolf)

Supporting characters also add to these themes. Harold Nicolson is the one who, pragmatic about the whole affair, tries to reconcile himself with Vita's infidelity, and the sister, Vanessa Bell, Virginia, was on a more conservative level of thought, so contrastive opinions enhance the story, it reveals conflict between conventional societal expectations and personal liberty.

# In your opinion, is the film able to capture Woolf's depressive state with sincerity & genuity?

The portrayal of Virginia Woolf’s mental health is a delicate and critical aspect of the film. Button’s direction and Debicki’s performance convey Woolf’s depressive state with a sincerity that avoids sensationalism. Through nuanced expressions, fragmented dialogue, and hauntingly beautiful imagery, the film captures Woolf’s internal struggles.

One of the most poignant scenes has Virginia strolling through her garden, bombarded by intrusive thoughts. The soundscape of whispers and buzzing is the aural expression of her mental chaos. This depiction speaks to Woolf's actual experiences in her diaries and letters, which makes it genuine and empathetic.

#Share your thoughts about the portrayal of the relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville West. (Here, discuss points like who initiated the relationship, their first meeting, their last meeting, etc)

The relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West is depicted as an admixture of admiration, passion, and creative inspiration. Vita is the initiator, drawn to Virginia's intellect and mysterious presence. Their first meeting is depicted with charged dialogue and lingering glances, setting the stage for their intense connection.

As their relationship develops, the boldness of Vita contrasts with Virginia's reticence. An important point is made when Vita states, 

"You are the only woman who has made me lose my mind."  (Debecki and Woolf)

This serves as a statement of the strong love she has for Virginia. On the other hand, Virginia's gradual giving way to Vita's advances portray a struggle within her as regards her insecurities toward love.

Their last meeting, though not so dramatic, holds finality and unspoken words. At this point, the relationship has gone beyond physical and romantic levels to deep respect and creative exchange. Such is symbolized in Virginia's dedication of Orlando to Vita, as an immortalization of their bond through literature.

Virginia: “You make me feel visible.”  (Debecki and Woolf)

Virginia’s admission highlights the validation and empowerment she finds in her relationship with Vita. 

Conclusion

Vita & Virginia is a poignant portrayal of love, creativity, and societal constraint. Through innovative use of letters, the film brings together the personal and universal in an invitation to enter the intimate world of its central characters. In its portrayal of diverse perspectives on relationships and marriage, it provokes the viewer to question norms. Above all else, it captures with sincerity and artistry the emotional depth of Virginia Woolf and how she felt for Vita Sackville-West: a fitting tribute to two remarkable women whose bond is truly well beyond the ordinary.

References:

Debecki, Elizabeth, and Mrs Woolf. “Vita & Virginia (2018).” IMDb, https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5859882/ . Accessed 29 December 2024.