PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE HIGH COMMISSION OF CANADA

The story of Maud Lewis’s rise to become one of Canada’s most celebrated folk artists is brought to life on the big screen by British-born actress Sally Hawkins who shines as the fragile but determined Maudie. After she answers an ad to become the live-in housekeeper of gruff fish peddler Everett Lewis (Hawke) in a small Nova Scotian town, an unlikely and sometimes tumultuous romance ensues between the pair. The film charts Maudie’s artistic journey from selling colourful, hand-painted Christmas cards from her tiny but lovingly painted house, to her surprising and unconventional rise to fame.

Hawkins transformation is extraordinary: going from an arthritic rural housewife to a popular folk artist who uses her paintings as a way to escape a childhood plagued by illness and a sometimes distressing early adulthood. She has rightfully received widespread praise, as has Hawke’s portrayal of Maudie’s reclusive husband. The challenging role is quite unlike anything Hawke has previously taken on.

A darling of last year’s film festival circuit – which included screenings at Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Berlin and Telluride – Maudie has also received seven nominations at the upcoming 6th annual Canadian Screen Awards, including Best Motion Picture.