Mockumentary ‘Lady’ Premieres at BFI London Film Festival

The mockumentary film Lady, directed by Samuel Abrahams and co-written with his partner Miranda Campbell Bowling, made its world premiere on July 6, 2023, at the BFI London Film Festival. Starring Sian Clifford as a narcissistic aristocrat, the film blends satire and surrealism to explore themes of loneliness and the human desire for recognition.

Set in the lavish surroundings of an English mansion, Lady follows the life of Lady Isabella, portrayed by Clifford. She hires a struggling director, Sam, played by Laurie Kynaston, to document her participation in a local talent show, Stately Stars. The synopsis highlights that Sam soon discovers the promise of a Netflix commission was a fabrication, leading him to contemplate quitting. Yet, he becomes intrigued by Isabella’s plight as she grapples with her own invisibility.

Abrahams and Clifford spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about the film’s unique setting at Somerleyton Hall in Suffolk, which also served as a filming location for the series The Crown. The director emphasized the mansion’s role not merely as a backdrop but as a character that reflects Isabella’s isolation. “The location is the answer to the question of where this type of character is trapped,” Abrahams explained. The opulence surrounding Isabella serves as both a distraction and a justification for her refusal to leave her estate.

Lady Isabella’s character draws parallels to the modern obsession with social media and the quest for validation. Abrahams revealed that the concept for Lady was inspired by a YouTube video he stumbled upon, featuring an aspiring influencer lacking an audience. “There’s humor in that. But it was also incredibly endearing,” he noted, describing the desire for recognition that resonates within the film.

Clifford expressed her enthusiasm for the role, describing Isabella as both fun and tragic. She noted the character’s flaws reflect a universal aspect of humanity. “To be honest, I feel like that’s every human in existence. We’re all so flawed,” she remarked. This complexity attracted her to the role and aligns with the film’s aim to spark discussions about self-worth and the impact of social media on mental health.

The film intertwines comedy with a critical examination of contemporary culture, and both Abrahams and Clifford hope to entertain while provoking thought. Clifford pointed out that the film subtly explores the detrimental effects of social media, particularly on younger audiences. “The film is about that relationship we have with our self-worth and how we’re measuring that with what we’re seeing from other people online,” she explained.

As Lady continues its journey at the BFI London Film Festival, it is poised to resonate with audiences, offering a blend of humor and introspection that reflects modern societal dynamics. Abrahams and Clifford have crafted a narrative that not only entertains but also invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of visibility and validation in an increasingly digital world.