Title: “Wicked Little Letters: A Darkly Funny Take on Small Town Scandal”
In the quaint English coast village of Littlehampton in 1920, a scandalous series of mysteriously obscene letters began arriving at the homes of its residents, sparking a feud between a dour spinster named Edith Swan and her raucous neighbor Rose Gooding. This bizarre and comedic tale is the focus of the new movie “Wicked Little Letters,” directed by Thea Sharrock and starring Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley.
The film, written by Jonny Sweet, takes a darkly funny approach to the story, leaning more towards farce than darkness. Edith, a pious and homely woman living with her strict parents, finds herself embroiled in a scandal when she accuses Rose of sending the obscene letters. Rose, who defies societal norms by living with her Black boyfriend and having a daughter who plays the guitar, becomes the target of Edith’s accusations.
As the feud between Edith and Rose escalates, local police officer Gladys Moss, played by Anjana Vasan, becomes determined to uncover the truth behind the mysterious letters. The movie unfolds like a caper, highlighting the absurdity and stupidity of the men in Littlehampton who are blinded by prejudice and misogyny.
Despite its comedic tone, “Wicked Little Letters” also delves into the plight of women in a patriarchal society, challenging viewers to reflect on the progress made since the 1920s. The film is buoyed by the stellar performances of Colman and Buckley, who bring depth and complexity to their characters.
While the movie is filled with witty one-liners and goofy side characters, it also tackles serious themes of oppression and prejudice. “Wicked Little Letters” is a thought-provoking and entertaining film that will leave audiences pondering the true nature of societal progress.
Rated R for its use of profanity and brief nudity, “Wicked Little Letters” is a must-see for those looking for a darkly funny take on small town scandal. The movie is now playing in theaters, offering a unique and engaging cinematic experience for viewers.
