
Movie spotlight
Creeping Jenny
A man is involved in a kidnapping while another man hits on his neighbor and talks to her about evergreen perennials. Creeping Jenny is another experimental short film, shot in two pieces during quarantine and brought together to create on narrative.
Insights
Plot Summary
Filmmaker Kirsten Johnson turns her lens on her family, particularly her father, who has Parkinson's disease and is considering assisted suicide. The documentary explores themes of love, mortality, and the complex ethics surrounding end-of-life choices through intimate conversations and observational footage.
Critical Reception
Creeping Jenny has been lauded by critics for its profound emotional depth, intimate storytelling, and sensitive exploration of a difficult subject. Reviewers praised Johnson's unique directorial approach, blending humor and heartbreak, and her ability to capture authentic moments of family life while confronting mortality.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its raw emotional honesty and intimate portrayal of a family navigating end-of-life decisions.
Acclaimed for Kirsten Johnson's distinctive directorial voice, balancing profound sadness with moments of unexpected joy.
Noted for its sensitive and thought-provoking examination of love, loss, and the complexities of assisted suicide.
Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly praised 'Creeping Jenny' for its deeply personal and moving narrative. Many highlighted the film's authenticity and its ability to evoke strong emotional responses, while others appreciated its nuanced approach to the sensitive topic of assisted death and family caregiving.
Awards & Accolades
Won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival (U.S. Documentary Competition). Nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Independent Spirit Awards.
Fun Fact
Director Kirsten Johnson utilized a mix of observational footage, home movies, and intimate interviews, sometimes even having family members film themselves, to create the film's deeply personal and multi-faceted perspective.
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