Suffragette is an intense, emotionally draining movie. When we talk of Women’s right to vote in our history classes, we only have a few lines about how Women won the right to vote and that there were marches and demonstrations, but there’s nothing in any of my history classes that paints the picture that this movie does. The main character, Maud Watts (Carey Mulligan), goes from not being politically involved and living a life of poverty and servitude to a woman who loses everything for the right to vote. The transformation is difficult to watch. The movie leaves you feeling a bit emotionally bruised.

Violet Miller (Anne-Marie Duff) becomes a coworker of Maud at the laundry where Maud has worked from the time she was a girl. Violet introduces Maud to the other women who are fighting the battle for the right to vote.

Emmeline Pankhurst (Meryl Streep) is an actual historical figure who was an leader in the movement. For those of you who are fans of Meryl Streep, you’ll be disappointed by the very short time she appears in the movie, albeit a good performance.

Historical Characters

Although Maud and Violet are fictional characters, many of the characters in the movie are historical characters. If you’re interested in who they were, the article at Biography.com is an excellent read. I appreciate that the writer, Abi Morgan, used people from history and historical events to tell this compelling story.

Controversy

There are a number of things that have caused controversy with this movie. The Washington Post article  and The Guardian about some aspects of the movie that has caused some people concern is well done. I recommend you take a look.

Filming and Production

The film makers, and in particular the wardrobe department, recreated the 1912-1913 time period well. The sets and clothing create a world that reflects what I know about the period.

Conclusion

The movie tells a story that is thought provoking. It does distort the larger picture by leading the viewer with the impression that the more militant Suffragette movement won the day. In reality, it was the careful planning of political action and changing the public’s opinion over time that ultimately gave women the right to vote.

The movie will have you discussing this topic for a good while after you see it. If you miss it in the theaters, you can pre-order the DVD here Suffragette. Let em know what you think about it once you have a chance to see it.

Cheers,
Jack