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.
Acting
Kerry Fox's raw, unshowy transformation across decades.
Direction
Campion's empathetic gaze never exploits Frame's suffering.
Cinematography
Stuart Dryburgh's washed-out New Zealand beauty.
Director
Jane Campion
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Janet Frame was still alive during filming and reportedly found Kerry Fox's portrayal so accurate it unsettled her.
This was Campion's breakthrough before 'The Piano,' and New Zealand's most expensive film at the time—roughly $3 million, or one Marvel coffee run.
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