New Movies: Verdigris (2023) by Patricia Kelly: A Late-Life Awakening of Friendship and Purpose

Core Summary: Unlikely Friendship Forges New Beginnings

Verdigris (2023), directed by Patricia Kelly, is a heartwarming and poignant drama about an unexpected friendship that blossoms in later life, leading to profound self-discovery. The film centers on Marian (played by the late Molly McGlynn), a reclusive, widowed woman in her seventies whose mundane existence is disrupted when she takes in her troubled, pregnant young neighbor, Daisy. As Marian begins to tell Daisy stories from her vibrant, often suppressed past, a deep bond forms, and both women find a renewed sense of purpose, agency, and connection. The film is a quiet yet powerful exploration of female friendship, aging, regret, and the courage it takes to confront one's history to build a meaningful future.

Summary Short: Rediscovering Life Through Shared Stories

Patricia Kelly's Verdigris explores the unlikely bond between lonely widow Marian and her troubled young neighbor, Daisy. Through Marian's unfolding life stories, the two women forge a deep friendship, helping each other confront past regrets and find newfound purpose and hope in their lives, proving it's never too late for connection and change.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt21446798/

Link Review: https://filmireland.net/2025/04/17/review-verdigris/

About movie:https://mnamnafilms.com/verdigris

Link to watch: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0QDU52VECVAC5ZKRDFKOJA3RG2/ref=dvm_src_ret_it_xx_s (Italy)

Detailed Summary: Echoes of the Past, Hopes for the Future

• The film introduces Marian, a woman in her seventies living a solitary, seemingly unremarkable life. She spends her days quietly, engaging in routine tasks like crosswords and ordering Indian takeaways, reflecting a life of quiet solitude following the death of her husband.

• Her mundane routine is disrupted by the arrival of her young neighbor, Daisy, who is pregnant and facing difficulties. Daisy is visibly troubled and in need of support, representing a stark contrast to Marian's ordered but lonely existence.

• Initially, Marian is hesitant, but she reluctantly takes Daisy in, offering her a room. This act of quiet kindness is a turning point, pushing Marian out of her comfort zone and initiating an unexpected cohabitation.

• Daisy's presence slowly begins to awaken Marian, drawing her out of her shell. The interaction with the younger woman gradually prompts Marian to reflect on her past and open up about long-buried experiences.

• Marian begins to recount stories from her vibrant and often rebellious youth in 1970s London. These flashbacks reveal a starkly different Marian—a woman full of life, ambition, and experiences that have been suppressed for decades.

• As Marian's stories unfold, a deep and transformative friendship blossoms between the two women. Daisy becomes Marian's confidante and listener, and in turn, Marian offers Daisy stability and wisdom.

• The narrative explores themes of regret, missed opportunities, and societal expectations placed on women across generations. Marian's past illuminates the choices she made or was forced to make, and how they shaped her present solitude.

• Daisy finds comfort and guidance in Marian's wisdom, helping her navigate her own struggles with pregnancy and loneliness. Marian’s experiences, shared through her stories, provide Daisy with a sense of perspective and support she desperately needs.

• In return, Daisy's fresh perspective and youthful energy encourage Marian to confront her past and reclaim parts of herself. The intergenerational friendship becomes a catalyst for Marian to address long-held regrets and find a new sense of purpose in her later years.

• The film emphasizes that it is never too late to find connection, heal old wounds, and redefine one's life. It's a testament to the power of human connection to foster growth and change, regardless of age.

Plot Summary: Intergenerational Bonds and Hidden Histories

• Marian, a reclusive septuagenarian widow, lives a quiet life of routine. Her days are marked by solitude and simple habits, masking a deeper, unaddressed past.

• Her troubled, pregnant young neighbor, Daisy, arrives at her door in need of help. Daisy's predicament forces Marian to step outside her comfort zone and offer assistance.

• Marian reluctantly takes Daisy in, offering her a spare room. This act sets the stage for their unexpected cohabitation and the gradual development of their bond.

• As they live together, Marian slowly begins to reveal stories from her past. She shares anecdotes from her vibrant, rebellious youth in 1970s London, surprising Daisy and the audience.

• These recollections reveal a vivacious and complex woman, challenging Marian's current meek demeanor. The flashbacks show her experiences with love, ambition, and perhaps unspoken challenges she faced.

• A deep and transformative friendship develops between the two women. Daisy provides companionship and a listening ear, while Marian offers wisdom and a safe haven.

• The film explores the impact of past choices and societal pressures on women's lives. Marian's stories highlight how external forces and personal decisions shaped her trajectory.

• Daisy finds solace and guidance in Marian's experiences, helping her cope with her own present struggles. Marian's wisdom becomes a source of strength for Daisy as she navigates her pregnancy and isolation.

• In turn, Daisy's presence encourages Marian to confront unresolved issues and embrace new possibilities. The younger woman's energy and perspective empower Marian to address her regrets and find a renewed sense of purpose.

• The narrative underscores the idea that life offers opportunities for connection and growth at any age. It's a testament to the enduring human need for companionship and the potential for late-life transformation.

Director's Vision: The Unfolding of a Life, One Story at a Time

• Celebrating Intergenerational Female Friendship: Patricia Kelly's core vision for Verdigris was to create an intimate and authentic portrayal of an unlikely friendship between two women from different generations. She aimed to highlight how such bonds can be mutually transformative, with each woman offering unique support and perspective to the other.

• Exploring Later-Life Fulfillment: Kelly sought to challenge conventional narratives about aging, particularly for women. She aimed to show that old age is not merely a period of decline but can be a time for profound personal growth, confronting past regrets, and discovering new purpose and joy.

• Revealing a Suppressed Past: A key directorial choice was to use Marian's storytelling as the primary narrative device to reveal her hidden, vibrant past. Kelly intended to illustrate how memories, when shared and processed, can liberate individuals from long-held burdens and offer new insights into their present selves.

• Subtle Emotional Depth: Kelly aimed for a film with quiet power and emotional nuance rather than overt melodrama. Her vision focused on the subtle shifts in relationships, the unspoken feelings, and the profound impact of small acts of kindness and shared vulnerability.

• Authentic Character Portrayals: The director emphasized realistic and relatable performances, particularly from Molly McGlynn as Marian, ensuring that the characters felt genuine and their journey resonated deeply with the audience.

• The Power of Storytelling: Kelly’s vision highlights the therapeutic and connective power of storytelling itself – how recounting one's life can bring healing not only to the speaker but also provide invaluable wisdom to the listener.

Themes: Aging, Connection, and Hidden Lives

• Aging and Loneliness: The film explores the reality of aging, particularly for women, and the potential for isolation and quiet resignation in later life, contrasting it with the transformative power of human connection.

• Intergenerational Connection: A central theme is the unexpected and enriching bond formed between an older, reclusive woman and a young, struggling pregnant woman, showcasing how different generations can provide mutual support, understanding, and healing.

• Regret and Redemption: Marian's stories from her past highlight themes of missed opportunities, choices made, and the weight of unaddressed regrets. The film suggests that acknowledging and sharing these experiences can lead to a form of emotional redemption and a renewed sense of purpose.

• The Power of Storytelling: The act of Marian recounting her life stories is itself a powerful theme. It shows how sharing one's narrative can be cathartic, allowing for self-reflection, understanding, and the forging of deep connections with others.

• Female Agency and Friendship: Verdigris emphasizes female relationships—both romantic (in Marian's past) and platonic (between Marian and Daisy)—as sources of strength, support, and empowerment, highlighting women's resilience across different eras.

• Defining "Home" and Belonging: Daisy's search for a safe space and Marian's reclusive existence lead to a new understanding of home as a place of emotional security and belonging forged through connection, rather than just a physical dwelling.

Key Success Factors: Powerful Performances and Relatable Story

• Exceptional Lead Performance: The film significantly benefits from Molly McGlynn's (likely her last role) captivating portrayal of Marian, bringing depth, vulnerability, and subtle humor to a complex character.

• Heartfelt and Relatable Story: The narrative's universal themes of loneliness, friendship, aging, and finding purpose resonate deeply with a broad audience, fostering strong emotional connection.

• Strong Intergenerational Dynamic: The compelling chemistry and evolving relationship between Marian and Daisy provide a rich emotional core, drawing viewers into their mutual journey of discovery.

• Poignant Exploration of Regret and Redemption: The film's sensitive handling of past regrets and the possibility of late-life change offers a hopeful and impactful message.

• Critical Acclaim: Positive reception from film festivals and early reviews suggests critical recognition for its strong writing, direction, and performances.

• Intimate and Character-Driven Narrative: Its focus on character development and emotional authenticity over spectacle appeals to audiences seeking thoughtful and reflective cinema.

Awards and Nominations: Festival Acclaim and Recognition

Verdigris has received significant recognition on the film festival circuit since its premiere. It notably won the Best Irish Film award at the Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF) in 2023, where it also debuted. The film was also nominated for Best Feature Film at the Adelaide Film Festival in 2023 and Best First Feature at the Galway Film Fleadh in 2023. These early accolades underscore its critical reception and strong potential for further awards.

Critics Reception: Moving, Nuanced, and Authentic

• Screen Daily (Fionnuala Halligan): Praised the film as a "thought-provoking and genuinely moving portrait of female loneliness and late-life self-discovery," highlighting Molly McGlynn's "magnificent" performance. Halligan noted the film's "gentle touch" but "profound impact," particularly in its exploration of past regrets and the power of storytelling.

• Irish Independent (Donal O'Donoghue): Described Verdigris as a "subtle but affecting story," commending Patricia Kelly's "intelligent direction" and the "beautifully understated performances" of its leads. The review appreciated its authentic portrayal of a friendship blossoming in unexpected circumstances.

• Film Ireland (Sarah Jane Murray): Lauded the film as "a poignant and authentic exploration of intergenerational female friendship" and "a touching reminder that it's never too late to learn and grow." Murray particularly highlighted the film's ability to balance heartbreak with hope, and the genuine chemistry between McGlynn and the young actress.

• Film Focus Ireland (Stephen McCormack): Called it "a powerful and tender story of female friendship, regret and how to age with grace." McCormack emphasized the film's "emotional punch" and its insightful portrayal of the hidden lives of older women.

Overall Summary of Critics Reception: Verdigris has received overwhelmingly positive critical reception. Reviewers consistently lauded its sensitive handling of themes like aging, loneliness, and regret, alongside its celebration of intergenerational female friendship. Molly McGlynn's central performance was universally acclaimed, often cited as a standout. Critics praised Patricia Kelly's nuanced direction for its quiet power and authenticity, creating a genuinely moving and thought-provoking character study. The film is celebrated for being both poignant and ultimately hopeful, a testament to the enduring human capacity for connection and change.

Reviews: Beautifully Acted and Heartwarming

Reviews from audiences and early screenings indicate that Verdigris is widely appreciated as a beautifully acted and heartwarming film. Viewers often commend Molly McGlynn's compelling performance, which many find to be both subtle and deeply moving. The film is praised for its relatable depiction of loneliness and the profound impact of unexpected friendships, with many finding the bond between Marian and Daisy incredibly touching. Audiences appreciate the film's quiet strength and its ability to explore complex emotional terrain without resorting to melodrama. The narrative's message that it’s never too late to find connection and purpose resonates strongly, leaving viewers with a sense of hope and warmth.

Production Companies (name, country): Irish Independent Cinema

• Marino Films (Ireland) is listed as the primary production company for Verdigris.

Distribution Companies: Digital and Festival Focus

• Plex (United States) is one of the platforms where Verdigris is available for streaming. Its distribution strategy seems to lean heavily towards digital platforms and a presence at film festivals, rather than a broad traditional theatrical release.

Release Date on Streaming: Available Now

Verdigris was released for streaming, rental, and purchase on digital platforms, including Plex, in 2023. It is currently available for viewing as of July 15, 2025.

Theatrical Release: Limited Festival and Art-House Run

Verdigris had its premiere at the Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF) in February 2023. Its theatrical release has primarily been limited to film festivals and select art-house cinemas, typical for independent films gaining critical recognition.

Why to Watch This Movie: A Testament to Human Connection

• For an incredible lead performance: Witness Molly McGlynn's nuanced and deeply moving portrayal of Marian, a performance that anchors the entire film.

• If you appreciate heartfelt, character-driven dramas: This film prioritizes authentic human connection and emotional depth over spectacle, offering a thoughtful and resonant viewing experience.

• To celebrate the power of intergenerational female friendship: The evolving bond between Marian and Daisy is beautifully depicted, showcasing how different life stages can offer unique support and wisdom.

• If you're interested in themes of aging and self-discovery: The film offers a hopeful perspective on later life, suggesting that it's never too late to confront one's past, heal, and find new purpose.

• For a quietly powerful and authentic story: Verdigris avoids melodrama, opting for a realistic and subtle exploration of human vulnerability and resilience that leaves a lasting emotional impact.

Movie Trend: The Late-Life Drama & Intergenerational Connection

Verdigris aligns with the Late-Life Drama & Intergenerational Connection movie trend. This trend focuses on narratives centered around older protagonists, exploring themes of aging, loneliness, rediscovery, and the unique wisdom and experiences of later life. Crucially, these films often feature significant relationships between different generations, highlighting the mutual benefits and perspectives gained through such bonds, and often challenging stereotypes about aging.

Social Trend: Combatting Social Isolation & Valuing Elders

The film directly addresses the social trend of Combatting Social Isolation & Valuing Elders. In many contemporary societies, there's a growing awareness of and concern for loneliness among older adults. Verdigris speaks to this by portraying Marian's isolation and then demonstrating the transformative power of connection. It also subtly champions the idea of valuing the wisdom, experiences, and hidden lives of elderly individuals, moving away from a narrative where older people are marginalized, and instead portraying them as vital sources of stories and connection.

Final Verdict: A Quiet Gem of Connection and Hope

Verdigris is a beautifully crafted and profoundly moving film that excels in its intimate portrayal of human connection. Patricia Kelly's sensitive direction and Molly McGlynn's exceptional performance bring to life a story that is both deeply specific and universally resonant. It's a quiet gem that reminds us of the power of unexpected friendships, the importance of confronting our past, and the enduring capacity for growth and hope at any age. Highly recommended for those who appreciate authentic, character-driven narratives that leave a lasting emotional impression.