An Angel at My Table
An Angel at My Table

An Angel at My Table

1990
Movie
158 min
English

Based on the autobiographical work of New Zealand writer Janet Frame, this production depicts the author at various stage of her life. Afflicted with mental and emotional issues, Frame grows up in an impoverished family and experiences numerous tragedies while still in her youth, including the deaths of two of her siblings. Portrayed as an adult by Kerry Fox, Frame finds acclaim for her writing while still in a mental institution, and her success helps her move on with her life.

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Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes95%
Metacritic85/100
Google Users90%
Director: Jane CampionGenres: Biography, Drama

Plot Summary

This biographical drama chronicles the life of New Zealand author Janet Frame, from her impoverished childhood marked by profound shyness and misdiagnosis of schizophrenia, through her years in psychiatric institutions, to her eventual recognition as a brilliant writer. It explores her struggles with mental illness, societal judgment, and the power of her own creative spirit. The film follows her journey towards self-acceptance and literary success.

Critical Reception

An Angel at My Table received widespread critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of Janet Frame's life and Jane Campion's masterful direction. Critics lauded the performances, particularly Kerry Fox's nuanced portrayal of Frame, and praised the film's profound exploration of mental health, identity, and artistic expression. It is widely regarded as a landmark film in New Zealand cinema.

What Reviewers Say

  • A deeply moving and beautifully crafted portrait of a remarkable artist.
  • Jane Campion's direction is sensitive and insightful, handling difficult subject matter with grace.
  • Kerry Fox delivers a career-defining performance as Janet Frame.

Google audience: Viewers found the film to be an inspiring and emotionally resonant story about overcoming adversity and the triumph of the human spirit. Many praised its artistic merit and the powerful lead performance, calling it a thought-provoking and essential watch.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival and the Audience Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. Also received numerous awards in Australia and New Zealand.

Fun Fact

The film's narrative is based on Janet Frame's three autobiographical books: 'To the Is-Land', 'An Autobiography of My Mother', and 'The Envoy Extraordinary'.

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