Chanya Button's film Vita & Virginia

Chanya Button's film Vita & Virginia:

Vita & Virginia is a 2018 biographical romantic drama film directed by Chanya Button. The screenplay, written by Button and Eileen Atkins, is adapted from the 1992 play Vita & Virginia by Atkins.The film stars Gemma Arterton, Elizabeth Debicki, and Isabella Rossellini. Set in the 1920s, Vita & Virginia tells the story of the love affair between Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf.

The film had its world premiere as a Special Presentation at the Toronto International Film Festival on 11 September 2018.It was released in the United Kingdom on 5 July 2019, and in the United States on 23 August 2019.(wikipedia)

1) How do the letters function not only as a medium of communication between the two central characters but also as narrative tool within the film?

In Chanya Button's film Vita & Virginia, letters serve as both a primary medium of communication between Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf and a pivotal narrative device that deepens the audience's understanding of their relationship and individual psyches.

Medium of Communication:

The film is set in the 1920s, a period when letter writing was a prevalent form of correspondence, especially among the literati. Vita and Virginia's letters begin with formal pleasantries but soon evolve into intimate exchanges, reflecting their deepening emotional and romantic connection. These letters allow the characters to express sentiments and desires that societal norms of the time might have suppressed in face-to-face interactions. The epistolary exchanges become a safe space for vulnerability, passion, and intellectual discourse, laying the foundation for their complex relationship.

Narrative Tool:

1. 
   Character Development: The letters provide direct insight into the inner thoughts and emotions of Vita and Virginia. By hearing their written words, the audience gains a deeper understanding of their motivations, fears, and desires. This narrative technique allows for a more nuanced portrayal of both women, showcasing their complexities beyond their public personas.

2. Authenticity and Historical Context: By incorporating the actual words from Vita and Virginia's correspondence, the film grounds itself in historical authenticity. This approach not only pays homage to their real-life relationship but also immerses the audience in the linguistic style and cultural context of the era. The letters reveal the challenges they faced, both personally and within the constraints of early 20th-century society.

3. Plot Progression: The exchange of letters propels the narrative forward, marking significant milestones in their relationship. Each letter reflects the progression from acquaintances to lovers, highlighting moments of longing during separations and the eventual strains that distance and societal pressures impose. The letters act as narrative anchors, guiding the audience through the timeline of their affair.

4. Visual and Auditory Engagement: The film employs creative techniques to present the letters. Often, the actresses recite the letters in voice-over while the camera captures their expressions, or they break the fourth wall, speaking directly to the audience. This method creates an intimate connection between the characters and viewers, enhancing emotional engagement. The visual representation of writing, such as ink flowing on paper, further enriches the sensory experience.

5. Thematic Exploration: The letters delve into themes of love, identity, creativity, and societal constraints. Through their correspondence, Vita and Virginia discuss their literary endeavors, the nature of their affection, and their struggles with mental health and societal expectations. These discussions provide a deeper understanding of the themes that permeate both their lives and their literary works, notably influencing Woolf's writing of Orlando, which was inspired by Vita.(Her Campus)

In summary, the letters in Vita & Virginia are integral to the film's narrative structure. They offer a window into the protagonists' inner worlds, drive the plot, and enrich thematic depth, all while maintaining historical authenticity. This epistolary device allows the film to explore the profound connection between Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf, illuminating how their relationship influenced their personal lives and literary creations.

2) Discuss some of the views regarding marriage, relationship and the role of society presented by the various characters in the film.

In Chanya Button's Vita & Virginia, the film delves into complex and multifaceted views on marriage, relationships, and societal expectations, particularly as they relate to the lives of Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf. These perspectives are explored through their dialogues, letters, and interactions with other characters, reflecting both conformity to and defiance of the norms of 1920s society.

Marriage as a Social Institution

Marriage is portrayed as a binding societal contract, often at odds with personal desires and freedoms. Vita Sackville-West’s marriage to Harold Nicolson is presented as unconventional yet functional. Although Harold is aware of Vita's romantic and sexual interests in women, their marriage remains intact, primarily for social and political reasons. Harold values the social respectability and stability their union provides, even as both partners explore relationships outside their marriage.

Virginia Woolf, on the other hand, shares a more conventional but intellectually driven bond with her husband, Leonard Woolf. Leonard is depicted as a supportive figure, deeply caring for Virginia's mental and emotional well-being. However, Virginia’s burgeoning relationship with Vita challenges her understanding of love and companionship, raising questions about whether marriage can accommodate personal fulfillment and intellectual equality.

Non-Traditional Relationships

Vita’s unapologetic approach to her sexuality and relationships stands in stark contrast to societal norms of the time. She challenges the notion that marriage must be an exclusive, monogamous bond. Vita's relationships, particularly her pursuit of Virginia, are driven by her belief in living authentically and pursuing passion, even if it means defying societal expectations.

Virginia, initially hesitant and cautious, becomes captivated by Vita’s charisma and openness. Through their relationship, Virginia begins to question traditional roles assigned to women in marriage and society. The intimacy they share is not just physical but also intellectual, inspiring Virginia's writing of Orlando, a novel that embodies themes of love, gender fluidity, and the timeless nature of relationships.

The Role of Society

Society is depicted as a restrictive force, imposing rigid expectations on individuals, particularly women. Vita, despite her privileged status, often finds herself battling societal judgment for her unconventional lifestyle. Her aristocratic background provides her with certain freedoms, yet these are limited by the need to maintain appearances.

Virginia, on the other hand, experiences societal pressures differently. As a member of the Bloomsbury Group, she is part of a progressive intellectual circle that challenges traditional norms. However, her struggles with mental health and the expectations placed upon her as a writer and wife add layers of complexity to her defiance of societal conventions.

Contrasting Perspectives

The film also explores differing perspectives through secondary characters. Harold represents a pragmatic view of marriage, valuing its stability over passion. Leonard embodies a more nurturing yet traditional role, prioritizing Virginia’s well-being over his personal desires. These contrasting views highlight the varied ways individuals navigate the intersection of love, duty, and societal norms.

Conclusion

Through its characters, Vita & Virginia presents a nuanced exploration of marriage, relationships, and societal roles. The film underscores the tension between individual desires and societal expectations, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the evolving nature of love and partnership. Vita and Virginia’s relationship, though unconventional, becomes a powerful narrative of self-discovery and creative inspiration, challenging the boundaries of tradition and paving the way for a more inclusive understanding of relationships.

3) In your opinion, is the film able to capture Woolf's depressive state with sincerity & genuity?

In Vita & Virginia, Virginia Woolf's depressive state is portrayed with sincerity, though the depth of her struggles might not resonate as fully as it could. The film addresses her mental health challenges, including her bouts of depression and sensitivity to external pressures, as intrinsic to her character and creative genius. However, while the intent is clear, the execution is somewhat limited by the constraints of a cinematic format and the narrative's primary focus on her relationship with Vita Sackville-West.

The film does succeed in showcasing Woolf’s internal struggles through her interactions with others and her solitary moments. Scenes of Virginia retreating into herself, haunted by auditory hallucinations and overwhelmed by her surroundings, effectively convey her fragility. These moments are marked by expressive cinematography, using dim lighting and blurred visuals to mirror her internal turmoil. Elizabeth Debicki's performance as Virginia is nuanced, capturing her vulnerability and moments of despair with subtlety and grace.

However, the film chooses to focus more on Virginia’s passionate relationship with Vita and its impact on her creativity, particularly her writing of Orlando. As a result, her depressive state sometimes feels secondary to the central narrative. While this choice aligns with the film’s thematic exploration of inspiration and transformation, it may understate the gravity of Woolf’s mental health challenges.

In conclusion, Vita & Virginia captures Woolf’s depressive state with sincerity, but perhaps not the full extent of its complexity. It emphasizes how her struggles shaped her artistry, presenting her pain as a profound yet partial facet of her identity. For viewers familiar with Woolf’s life and works, this portrayal might feel incomplete but still respectful of her legacy.

4) Share your thoughts about the portrayal of the relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville West. (Here, discuss points like who initiated the relationship, their first meeting, their last meeting, etc)

The portrayal of the relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West in Vita & Virginia is a layered exploration of love, inspiration, and transformation. The film emphasizes their contrasting personalities and the impact their relationship had on each other’s personal lives and creative work, particularly Woolf’s novel Orlando. It provides insight into the stages of their connection, from its initiation to its culmination, framed within the social and literary context of the 1920s.

The Initiation of the Relationship

The relationship between Virginia and Vita begins with Vita taking the initiative. Vita, portrayed as confident and worldly, is drawn to Virginia’s intellectual brilliance and enigmatic nature. Their first meeting, arranged through mutual acquaintances, is depicted as a moment of intrigue. Vita’s bold charm contrasts with Virginia’s reserved demeanor, highlighting their differences. From the outset, Vita is shown as the pursuer, enchanted by Virginia’s talent and allure.

Virginia, on the other hand, is initially cautious and hesitant. She is depicted as someone who struggles with intimacy due to her mental health challenges and introverted nature. However, Vita’s persistence and sincerity gradually break down Virginia’s defenses, leading to a deep emotional and intellectual bond.

Their First Meeting

The first meeting between Virginia and Vita is portrayed with subtle tension and curiosity. Set in a vibrant literary salon, the scene captures their mutual fascination. Vita’s confidence and ease stand out in contrast to Virginia’s quiet intensity. The film emphasizes how their dynamic begins with admiration—Vita admires Virginia’s intellectual depth, while Virginia is intrigued by Vita’s vivacity and boldness. This initial meeting sets the tone for a relationship that defies societal conventions and expectations.

The Development of Their Relationship

As their relationship progresses, the film explores its complexity. Vita’s passionate and impulsive nature brings a sense of vitality to Virginia’s life, inspiring her creatively. Virginia’s novel Orlando, often described as a love letter to Vita, becomes a central symbol of their bond. Their letters, which are prominently featured in the film, reveal the depth of their connection, with Vita often expressing her longing and adoration while Virginia responds with introspective reflections.

The film also highlights the challenges in their relationship. Vita’s aristocratic background and her marriage to Harold Nicolson provide her with certain freedoms but also create constraints. Virginia’s mental health and her marriage to Leonard Woolf add further complications. These external pressures create a dynamic where their relationship oscillates between moments of passion and distance.

Their Last Meeting

The film poignantly portrays their final meeting as a moment of bittersweet closure. While the romantic intensity of their relationship fades, their mutual respect and admiration endure. Virginia’s gift of Orlando to Vita becomes a lasting testament to their connection, immortalizing their bond in literature. The scene underscores how their relationship, though unconventional and at times turbulent, profoundly shaped both their lives.

Conclusion

The portrayal of Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West’s relationship in Vita & Virginia is both tender and compelling. It captures the transformative power of their connection, emphasizing how it defied societal norms and inspired one of Woolf’s greatest works. Through its focus on their first meeting, the evolution of their bond, and their final farewell, the film offers a nuanced depiction of a relationship that was as complex and groundbreaking as the women themselves.

Additional Resource:

 Trailer:

Reference:

“The Letters between Vita & Virginia: A Love Story beyond Social Taboos.” Her Campus, 29 Oct. 2023, www.hercampus.com/school/casper-libero/the-letters-between-vita-virginia-a-love-story-beyond-social-taboos/?utm_.

“Vita & Virginia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 4 Oct. 2024, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vita_%26_Virginia .