Mockumentary ‘Lady’ Shines at BFI London Film Festival Premiere

The mockumentary film Lady, featuring Sian Clifford as a deluded aristocrat, premiered on March 15, 2024, at the 69th BFI London Film Festival (LFF). Directed by Samuel Abrahams, who co-wrote the script with partner Miranda Campbell Bowling, the film balances satire and surreal comedy while providing an intimate portrait of loneliness and the need for validation among the privileged.

Set in the stunning Somerleyton Hall in Suffolk, a location previously used in productions such as The Crown, the film tells the story of Lady Isabella, played by Clifford. Desperate for attention, Isabella hires a struggling director, Laurie Kynaston, to document her life at the opulent Ravenhyde Hall. As the story unfolds, Kynaston’s character, Sam, learns that Isabella’s claims of a Netflix commission are false. Instead, she aims to showcase her participation in a low-stakes local talent show, exposing her quest for relevance and visibility.

Abrahams, reflecting on the film’s unique setting, described Somerleyton Hall as more than just a backdrop; it serves as a character in itself. “The location is the answer to the question of where this type of character is trapped,” he explained. Isabella’s luxurious surroundings symbolize her isolation, filled with beautiful distractions that mask her deeper feelings of loneliness.

The filmmaker shared that the idea for Lady originated from an unexpected source: a YouTube video of an aspiring influencer struggling to gain an audience. This experience highlighted the universal desire to be seen, compelling Abrahams to explore themes of self-worth and validation in the film. He expressed his admiration for comedies from the 1990s, noting the influence of films like Groundhog Day and Being John Malkovich on his storytelling approach.

Clifford resonated with the character of Isabella, describing her as “fun and bonkers.” She emphasized that Isabella’s complexity reflects the flaws inherent in all humanity, making her relatable despite her extravagant lifestyle. The actress noted the film’s timely commentary on narcissism and social media, addressing the damaging effects of comparing oneself to others in an increasingly digital world.

“This is something everyone’s talking about,” Clifford stated regarding the film’s critical exploration of self-image in the age of social media. While she personally avoids platforms like Instagram for their negative impact, she aims for the film to spark discussions about how online comparisons affect self-worth. “The film explores our relationship with self-worth and how we measure that against what we see from others online,” she said.

As Lady prepares for wider audiences, the filmmakers hope to not only entertain but also provoke thought on the nature of visibility in modern society. The combination of humor and poignant themes positions the film as a reflection of contemporary issues, showcasing the lengths to which individuals will go to feel recognized. The premiere at the BFI London Film Festival marks a significant milestone for Abrahams and Clifford, highlighting their collaboration in creating a film that is both engaging and meaningful.