The Arbor
2010 · Documentary · 94 min. · United Kingdom
A documentary charting the life of Bradford-born playright Andrea Dunbar, from the performance of her first play to her tragic early death. Directed by artist Clio Barnard, The Arbor tells the true story of troubled playwright Andrea Dunbar who died aged 29, leaving a legacy of three plays (including Rita, Sue and Bob Too and The Arbor) and her 11-year-old daughter, Lorraine. Barnard uses personal accounts from Dunbar’s family and friends to construct this compelling film and returns to the Buttershaw estate in Bradford that influenced so much of Dunbar’s creative work. Scenes from the play The Arbor, are performed on the estate for local residents and this footage is blended with 80s documentary material creating a compassionate portrait of a difficult and complex life.
Direction Clio Barnard
Cast Natalie Gavin · Christine Bottomley · Neil Dudgeon · Manjinder Virk · Danny Webb · Kate Rutter
Soundtrack Harry Escott · Molly Nyman
Screenplay Clio Barnard
Cinematography Ole Bratt Birkeland
Original title The Arbor
6.7
175 votes (FilmAffinity)
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