Mockumentary ‘Lady’ Explores Aristocratic Delusions at BFI London Film Festival

The mockumentary film “Lady,” featuring Sian Clifford in the role of a self-absorbed aristocrat, premiered at the 69th BFI London Film Festival on October 5, 2023. Directed by Samuel Abrahams and co-written with his partner Miranda Campbell Bowling, the film captures the antics of a narcissistic character navigating life in an opulent English mansion.

Set against the backdrop of Somerleyton Hall in Suffolk, a location also used for the acclaimed series “The Crown,” “Lady” tells the story of Lady Isabella, portrayed by Clifford, who craves the spotlight. The narrative follows her as she hires struggling director Sam (played by Laurie Kynaston) to document her life at Ravenhyde Hall, only to reveal her true motivations tied to a local talent show, “Stately Stars.”

The film blends satire, comedy, and surreal elements, ultimately exploring the universal need for validation, even among those in privileged positions. As the synopsis highlights, “When he discovers that the promise of a Netflix commission was a lie, and that Isabella only wants him there to film her taking part in a ridiculously low-stakes regional talent show held at the Hall, he’s ready to quit — until he realizes the narcissistic Lady is, quite literally, turning invisible.”

Capturing the Essence of Isolation

Abrahams noted the significance of Somerleyton Hall beyond its visual appeal. “It became not just a backdrop, but a character in the film,” he explained. The mansion reflects Lady Isabella’s own isolation, with its lavish decor serving as a distraction from her loneliness. “The location is the answer to the question of where this type of character is trapped,” he added, indicating that the character’s surroundings mirror her emotional state.

Both Abrahams and Clifford emphasized the dynamic between the two central characters. The film showcases how their interactions reveal both the darker and more beautiful aspects of their personalities. The project marks a significant milestone in Abrahams’ career, who previously won two Cannes Lions for his commercials and had his short film “Connect” nominated for a BAFTA.

The idea for “Lady” emerged from Abrahams’ exploration of social media. “I got lost down a YouTube rabbit hole and stumbled across the first video post of someone clearly aspiring to be an influencer, but without an audience,” he shared. This experience inspired him to delve into the concept of visibility and the human desire to be seen in a world that often overlooks individuals.

Reflecting Modern Society

Clifford described the film as both original and relevant, touching on themes of narcissism and the need for recognition. “It felt like a real leap for me in terms of the parts that come my way these days,” she remarked. “The film is about our relationship with self-worth and how we measure that against what we see online.”

She expressed her fascination with Lady Isabella, calling her “fun and bonkers” while recognizing the character’s tragic elements. Clifford noted that the complexity of Isabella resonated with her, as it reflects the flaws inherent in all humans. “Her complexity is probably what drew me to her, because I felt there’s so much going on, and that feels very real,” she explained.

Both Abrahams and Clifford aim to spark conversation through “Lady.” “This is something everyone’s talking about,” Clifford said, highlighting the impact of social media on society, particularly for young people. The film explores how online platforms alter perceptions of self-worth and encourage constant comparisons.

As audiences engage with “Lady,” it promises to entertain while provoking thoughtful discussions about the influence of digital culture on personal identity. Abrahams and Clifford have crafted a narrative that resonates with contemporary viewers, making “Lady” a significant addition to this year’s film festival landscape.