Herself

"Herself" is a poignant drama film released in 2020, starring Clare Dunne, who also co-wrote the screenplay. The story follows Sandra, a determined mother escaping an abusive relationship, who embarks on a courageous journey to build a new home for her and her daughters. Faced with numerous obstacles from housing officials and financial barriers, Sandra's resilience becomes the heart of the film. "Herself" explores themes of empowerment, domestic abuse, and the struggle for independence, offering an intimate and emotional perspective on starting over and creating safety for one's family. The film delicately balances moments of hardship with hope, highlighting the strength of community support and personal determination.

Critically acclaimed, "Herself" holds a strong reception among reviewers and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts a commendable 94% approval rating, signaling widespread praise for its storytelling and performances. The consensus highlights Clare Dunne's compelling portrayal of Sandra as both authentic and deeply moving. Metacritic rates the film at 70/100, indicating generally favorable reviews. Critics appreciate the film's sensitive handling of difficult subjects such as domestic abuse and poverty without resorting to melodrama. For instance, The Guardian praised it as "a touching, well-acted story of resilience and hope," while Variety noted its "sobering but ultimately uplifting narrative." IMDb users rate it 7.0/10, reflecting solid audience engagement. Some criticism revolves around a few pacing issues, but overall, "Herself" stands out for its emotional depth and socially relevant themes, making it a significant and impactful cinematic experience.