Lynne Ramsay’s Bold Vision for Jennifer Lawrence in ‘Die My Love’

Scottish director Lynne Ramsay has taken significant creative risks in her latest film, Die My Love, which stars Jennifer Lawrence as a mother grappling with the complexities of motherhood. This adaptation of Ariana Harwicz‘s novel, originally brought to Ramsay’s attention by acclaimed director Martin Scorsese, explores the darker sides of parental responsibility and personal isolation. The film is set to be released in cinemas on November 7, 2023.

Ramsay, known for her unflinching portrayal of family dynamics, has previously made notable films such as We Need to Talk About Kevin and Ratcatcher. Her ability to delve into the emotional depths of her characters has earned her critical acclaim, but Die My Love pushes these boundaries even further. The story follows a couple, Grace and Jackson, who relocate from New York to a remote area in the American West, where the arrival of their child drastically alters their previously carefree lifestyle.

In a recent interview, Ramsay shared her initial hesitation about adapting Harwicz’s novel, which presents a surreal narrative filled with unsettling themes. “It’s a beautiful piece of writing, but I wasn’t sure how I could adapt it; it’s quite surrealist,” she explained. Despite her reservations, the enthusiasm from Lawrence and her producing partner, Justine Ciarrocchi, encouraged Ramsay to explore the project. “Jennifer was very keen and said she wanted to go all out,” Ramsay recalled.

Exploring the Depths of Motherhood

The film dives deep into the psychological struggles of motherhood, with Lawrence’s character facing the isolating realities of being a new parent. Critics have drawn parallels to themes of postpartum depression, especially considering that Lawrence was five months pregnant during filming. “You feel like an alien,” she remarked about the challenges of the postpartum period. Ramsay, too, resonated with her character’s journey, stating, “I related to her writer’s block, to her sex life going totally to pot.”

The visual approach of Die My Love differs from Ramsay’s previous work. Shot by Seamus McGarvey, the film employs a more intimate Academy frame. Ramsay described it as a “portrait film,” contrasting with the metaphorical dynamics of We Need to Talk About Kevin. As the narrative unfolds, the characters navigate the tumultuous waters of love, loss, and the struggle for identity amidst the chaos of family life.

The film’s cast features Robert Pattinson as Jackson, alongside Sissy Spacek and Nick Nolte. Ramsay emphasized the importance of chemistry among the actors, noting that they underwent dance lessons together to build rapport before filming began. “They just had chemistry, which was brilliant,” she said of Lawrence and Pattinson.

Creative Challenges and Future Aspirations

Ramsay’s career has been marked by both triumphs and obstacles in the independent film landscape. She has often faced challenges in bringing her vision to fruition, notably with projects like The Lovely Bones and Jane Got a Gun, which she ultimately walked away from due to creative differences. “Protecting my own voice is important to me,” she stated, highlighting her dedication to maintaining artistic integrity.

The success of Die My Love was underscored by its acquisition by Mubi for $24 million at the Cannes Film Festival, a testament to its anticipated impact. Ramsay expressed surprise at the deal, saying, “It was unexpected and weird.” She believes that success in filmmaking is ultimately measured by a film’s ability to endure over time, stating, “A film that stands the test of time.”

Looking ahead, Ramsay is working on two new projects, including an adaptation of Margaret Atwood‘s short story Stone Mattress and a film about artificial intelligence for Margot Robbie‘s production company, LuckyChap. Despite the challenges of the industry, she remains committed to her unique vision. “I’m still making films my way, sticking to my guns and holding on to my integrity,” she affirmed.

As the release date for Die My Love approaches, anticipation builds for Ramsay’s bold exploration of motherhood, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. Her fearless approach to storytelling continues to resonate with audiences, promising an engaging cinematic experience that challenges societal norms around family dynamics.