The Arbor (2010)
(Clio Barnard, UK 2010, 90 min., DCP)
The Arbor traces the tormented life and legacy of British Playwright Andrea Dunbar. While renowned for her three plays—The Arbor, which premiered at London’s Royal Court Theatre in 1980; Rita, Sue and Bob Too, which was turned into a film in 1986; and Shirley—Dunbar’s life was plagued by chronic abuse and alcoholism. She died, tragically, at the age of twenty-nine, leaving behind a brief but illustrious career and three children from three different men. This documentary revisits, in present day, the site of Dunbar’s upbringing: the notorious Buttershaw Estate in Bradford. Compelling interviews with Lorraine, her oldest daughter, reveal Dunbar’s devastating effects on her, and are juxtaposed with those of other family members who have a contrasting view. This is displayed through the innovative technique of verbatim theater where actors lip-synch documentary recordings of the characters they are playing. The film follows Lorraine’s journey of reflection and self-discovery as she comes to terms with her own struggles, and those faced by her mother. Equal parts art and reportage, The Arbor is an unconventional and poignant piece of cinema.
Introduction by and post-screening Q&A with Shanti Thakur, professor and director of RIT’s School of Film and Animation.