Shirley (2020) is a captivating psychological drama that delves into the complex mind of one of America’s most renowned horror writers, Shirley Jackson. Directed by Josephine Decker, this film takes a bold and unconventional approach to tell the story of Jackson’s life, blending fiction with reality. Starring Elisabeth Moss in a critically acclaimed performance as Shirley Jackson, the film explores themes of creativity, marriage, mental health, and the often-turbulent process of artistic inspiration. With a gripping narrative and stunning performances, Shirley offers a unique perspective on the personal and professional life of an iconic writer.
Movie Overview
- Title: Shirley
- Genre: Drama, Thriller, Biography
- Director: Josephine Decker
- Writers: Sarah Gubbins (screenplay), based on the novel by Susan Scarf Merrell
- Release Date: June 5, 2020
- Cast:
- Elisabeth Moss as Shirley Jackson
- Michael Stuhlbarg as Stanley Hyman
- Odessa Young as Rose Nemser
- Logan Lerman as Fred Nemser
- Victor Williams as Mr. Poole
Plot Summary
Shirley focuses on a transformative period in the life of the famous horror writer Shirley Jackson (Elisabeth Moss), exploring her tumultuous relationship with her husband, Stanley Hyman (Michael Stuhlbarg), and the psychological complexities behind her writing. The film is loosely inspired by the 1950s and 1960s, during which Jackson was at the height of her career but also facing significant personal struggles.
The story is narrated through the eyes of Rose Nemser (Odessa Young), a young woman who moves in with Shirley and her husband after being hired to help with household chores. Rose is initially intrigued by Shirley, who is known for writing dark and unsettling fiction, particularly her famous novel The Haunting of Hill House. As Rose observes Shirley’s eccentric behavior and volatile relationship with Stanley, she begins to unravel the secrets of Shirley’s mind.
At the same time, Rose’s own personal life begins to mirror the disorienting dynamics within the Jackson household. She forms a complex relationship with Shirley, who encourages her to write, while also becoming increasingly obsessed with the mysterious circumstances surrounding Shirley’s work and her ability to tap into the darkness of the human experience. The film blends Shirley’s literary genius with her emotional and mental struggles, revealing the high price that artists sometimes pay for creativity.
Themes Explored
- The Struggles of Creative Genius: One of the central themes of Shirley is the toll that creativity can take on a person. The film explores the challenges of being a writer—particularly one of Shirley Jackson’s caliber—where personal demons and societal pressures often intertwine with the creative process. Shirley’s writing is depicted as both a source of inspiration and a manifestation of her inner turmoil, highlighting the complicated relationship between an artist’s personal life and their art.
- Mental Health and Isolation: Shirley’s mental health is portrayed as a significant element of her character. Her struggle with anxiety, depression, and isolation is palpable throughout the film. The film also explores the isolation of being a woman in a male-dominated literary world, as Shirley deals with her husband’s belittling behavior and the lack of understanding surrounding her struggles.
- Marriage and Power Dynamics: The film also delves into Shirley’s complicated marriage with Stanley Hyman (Michael Stuhlbarg), a prominent academic. The power dynamics within their relationship are unsettling, as Stanley constantly undermines Shirley’s work while relying on her literary fame for his own career. This toxic, co-dependent relationship affects Shirley’s emotional state, revealing the challenges women face in both personal and professional spheres.
- Feminism and Gender Roles: Shirley challenges traditional gender roles, showcasing the limitations placed on women during the 1950s and 1960s. The film subtly addresses the societal expectations of women, especially in terms of marriage, motherhood, and career, while highlighting how Shirley and Rose navigate their desires for autonomy and recognition in a world that often holds them back.
- Literary Influence and Inspiration: The film portrays how Shirley Jackson’s dark and mysterious works, such as We Have Always Lived in the Castle and The Haunting of Hill House, were deeply influenced by her life experiences. It shows how the events of her personal life were reflected in her writing, blurring the line between her fiction and reality.
Why Watch Shirley?
- Elisabeth Moss’s Brilliant Performance: Elisabeth Moss delivers an extraordinary performance as Shirley Jackson, perfectly capturing the complexity of the writer’s character. Her portrayal of a woman grappling with both her artistic genius and personal demons is both mesmerizing and haunting, adding a layer of depth to the film.
- A Unique Take on a Biographical Drama: Unlike traditional biographical films, Shirley blends elements of psychological thriller with biographical drama. This unconventional approach makes the film stand out, offering a compelling narrative that delves deep into Shirley Jackson’s psyche while maintaining a gripping sense of suspense and intrigue.
- Beautiful Cinematography and Atmosphere: The film is visually stunning, with a moody, atmospheric look that complements the dark themes of the story. The cinematography and color palette enhance the sense of unease, mirroring the psychological tension Shirley feels throughout the film.
- Strong Supporting Cast: Alongside Moss, the supporting cast delivers solid performances, particularly Michael Stuhlbarg as Stanley Hyman, whose portrayal of the condescending and manipulative husband adds to the tension in the film. Odessa Young also shines as Rose, whose relationship with Shirley evolves throughout the film in a nuanced and intriguing way.
- Exploration of Feminism and Art: For viewers interested in feminist themes and the intersection of gender and creativity, Shirley offers a thought-provoking look at the struggles women face in the literary world, both in terms of personal and professional challenges.
Criticisms of Shirley
- Pacing and Slow Burn: Some viewers may find the pacing of the film slow, particularly in the first half. The film takes its time to build tension and atmosphere, which may not appeal to those expecting a more fast-paced narrative. However, for fans of psychological dramas, this deliberate pacing helps build suspense and character depth.
- Fictionalized Elements: While the film is loosely based on Shirley Jackson’s life, it takes creative liberties in presenting certain events and characters. Some viewers may find this fictionalization distracting, especially those familiar with Jackson’s real life and work. The film is more about capturing the essence of Shirley’s character rather than a precise biographical account.
- Limited Action and Drama: Unlike typical thrillers or biographical films that emphasize high stakes or dramatic moments, Shirley is more introspective and focused on character development. While this makes for a rich and thought-provoking experience, it might leave viewers seeking more action or external conflict somewhat unsatisfied.
- Not for Everyone: The film’s psychological depth and unconventional narrative structure might not appeal to all audiences. Those expecting a straightforward biographical drama or a more traditional Hollywood film may find Shirley to be too abstract or cerebral.
How to Watch Shirley (2020)
- Streaming Platforms
Shirley is available for streaming on platforms like Hulu (in the U.S.) and other video-on-demand services. Check your local streaming platforms for availability. - Digital Rental or Purchase
You can rent or purchase Shirley digitally on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, YouTube Movies, and Apple TV. - Avoid Piracy
To support the filmmakers and enjoy the best quality, it’s recommended to watch Shirley through legitimate streaming services or digital purchase. Piracy harms the industry and reduces the quality of future film productions.
Conclusion
Shirley (2020) is a dark, atmospheric drama that offers a fascinating and psychological exploration of one of America’s most iconic writers. Elisabeth Moss’s extraordinary performance anchors the film, while the film’s unique narrative style blends biography and fiction in a thought-provoking way. By focusing on the complexities of creative genius, mental health, and the dynamics of marriage, Shirley presents a rich and compelling character study that will resonate with viewers who appreciate slow-burn dramas and psychological depth.
If you’re interested in films that explore the intersection of art and personal life, or if you’re a fan of Shirley Jackson’s work, Shirley is a must-watch. Just be prepared for a contemplative and intense journey into the mind of one of America’s greatest literary figures.
Disclaimer
This article encourages viewers to watch Shirley through authorized streaming platforms. Piracy is illegal and harms the film industry. Always choose legal options to enjoy your favorite films.
