546 words, 3 minutes read time.
In “Wicked Little Letters,” Jonny Sweet’s uproarious script transports viewers to the quaint seaside town of Littlehampton in the 1920s, where the delightful blend of humour and mystery unfolds. Led by the incomparable Olivia Colman as the devout Edith Swan and Jessie Buckley as the brash Rose Gooding, the film delivers a comedic whirlwind tinged with social commentary.
The film’s brilliance lies not just in its witty banter and expletive-laden letters but in its exploration of societal norms and the suffragette movement’s resonance. Edith and Rose, with their contrasting personas, embody the liberating power of swearing, offering a humorous yet poignant commentary on repression and frustration.
Swearwords, when wielded by characters like Edith and Rose, become hilarious. Edith’s prim demeanour contrasts sharply with the profanity-laden letters she receives, creating absurdity and delight. It’s always funny to see swearwords used in environments which have a conservative, formal environment as in the court room scenes.
The incongruity of encountering swearwords unexpectedly adds to the humour. As philosopher Immanuel Kant noted, absurdity often leads to convulsive laughter! Swearing isn’t just comic relief; it’s a way for characters to release pent-up frustration in a repressive society.
Moreover, the film subtly delves into themes of women’s rights. he film subtly explores the suffragette movement’s impact on women’s roles. Edith’s father (Timothy Spall) dismisses suffrage efforts, revealing the hypocrisy of condemning sweary letters while ignoring more pressing moral issues.
Rose, an unmarried single mother (played by Malachi Kirby), defies societal norms. Her openness challenges the post-war status quo.
Anjana Vasan as Police Officer Gladys Moss, the county’s lone female police officer was the heroine (or is it just hero now – like actor?) of the film. She is frequently reminded of her “place” by male colleagues and that there is a hierarchy in the police (with them at the top, of course) but she never accepts this.
The backdrop of the suffragettes highlights the struggle for women’s rights, juxtaposed with the scandalous letters.
There is an ethnically diverse cast. However, the film’s avoidance of any hint of racism (a trend in recent drama) is in stark contrast to its subtext of women’s struggle for equality. An inter-racial couple (Rose and her boyfriend Bill (played by Malachi Kirby) but not a mention of any racial problem!
I worry that racism is being consigned to the ‘memory hole’ as envisioned in Orwell’s 1984. One day will everyone believe that Britain was never racist, that ethnic minorities were always here and represented in all levels of our society. Beneficial or not? It depends. Acknowledging past racism educates and fosters empathy, but dwelling solely on it can perpetuate victimhood narratives. Some writers and casting directors seem to have decided it’s best airbrushed out of the picture!
“Wicked Little Letters” draws inspiration from a real-life scandal that rocked the sleepy town of Littlehampton, Sussex, during the 1920s. The film breathes life into the tale of Rose Gooding and Edith Swan, offering a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of human nature. Through clever adaptation and nuanced performances, “Wicked Little Letters” transforms a bizarre historical incident into an fun but also thought-provoking cinematic experience. I was left thinking about the profound impact of words on identity and society.
By Pat Harrington
Picture credit: By Unknown – IMP Awards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=75610966
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