Exploring the Visual Narrative of ‘Audrey’s Children’
The film industry often utilizes visual language to forge connections between viewers and characters. In the biopic Audrey’s Children, which premiered on March 28, director Ami Canaan Mann adopted a meticulous approach to mirror the intricate mind of Dr. Audrey Evans, played by Natalie Dormer. Mann aimed to create a visual experience that reflected Evans’ profound interior life and her exceptional contributions to pediatric oncology.
Creating a Unique Visual Language
During an interview with IndieWire on the Filmmaker Toolkit podcast, Mann emphasized her intention to offer a “performance-platformed biopic.” She described the film as a narrative that showcases how Evans thinks and resolves challenges within her environment. “What if the world of the movie was as visually specific as the woman herself?” Mann posited, highlighting her ambition for a film that resonates both visually and thematically with its protagonist.
Evans’ Monumental Impact
Dr. Audrey Evans is renowned for her pioneering contributions, earning her the title of the “mother of neuroblastoma” due to her tireless efforts in improving survival rates for this childhood cancer. She co-developed the cancer staging system widely used today and played a pivotal role in establishing the Ronald McDonald House, aimed at aiding families of children undergoing cancer treatment. The film seeks to encapsulate this extensive legacy while maintaining a compelling narrative within its 90-minute runtime.
Visual Aesthetics and Cinematic Techniques
With an intention to imbue the film with rich visual detail, Mann’s team utilized a vibrant color palette inspired by 1960s photography. This approach includes thoughtful compositions that echo the patterns central to Evans’ scientific work. Alongside cinematographer Jon Keng, costume designer Sarah Maiorino, and production designer Amber Unkle, they crafted a textured environment that envelops the viewer, paralleling Evans’ cognitive process.
Reflections of Evans’ Cognitive Patterns
“I thought about what it would be like to be somebody who, from a very early age, was able to see cognitively,” Mann stated, explaining her visual strategy. The deliberate inclusion of patterns, such as layered wallpaper and clothing designs, was integral to depicting Evans’ character authentically. This careful integration reinforces the film’s visual storytelling, making every shot a reflection of Evans’ perception of the world and her dedicated work.
Moments of Connection and Beauty
Certain pivotal scenes stand out as embodiment of the film’s romanticism. Notably, a late-night notecard session featuring Evans and her colleagues serves as a powerful exploration of their collaborative efforts to establish a cancer staging system. Additionally, a scene where she comforts a young patient—taking her to the rooftop for a candid discussion about mortality—truly reflects the heart of Evans’ calling. Each cinematographic choice aligns with Evans’ insights, capturing her dedication and humanity.
Authentic Soundscapes
To further enrich the film’s narrative, Mann and composer Genevieve Vincent opted for a lively jazz score. Mann described wanting a mid-century jazz vibe that conveys the essence of thought and reflection. She noted, “What emerged from that for ‘Audrey’s Children’ was [that the film] needed to be Ektachrome,” aiming for a vintage color palette devoid of primary colors to truly ground the film in its era.
Guiding the Director’s Vision
The challenge of evading clichés is paramount in depicting a historical figure’s life accurately. Mann addressed this by emphasizing the film’s authenticity and immersive world. She explained her method of using a wall filled with research images to inform every visual decision, ensuring continuity and depth. Her intention is that by crafting a world that feels complete and authentic, audiences will engage with the story of children battling cancer in a way they may not have considered otherwise.
Conclusion
Through Mann’s innovative directorial approach, Audrey’s Children not only chronicles Dr. Evans’ groundbreaking medical achievements but also transforms these complex narratives into a visually stunning experience. To delve deeper into Mann’s creative process, listeners can subscribe to the Filmmaker Toolkit podcast on various platforms.
