First Friday Film: Maudie

Maud, a bright-eyed, intelligent woman, hunched and with hands disabled by arthritis, yearns to be independent from her overly protective family. She answers an advertisement for a housekeeper by a 40-year-old bachelor, Everett, who owes nothing to anyone. She is a terrible housekeeper and spends most of her time painting. But over time, she wins his heart. When they realize people will actually buy her cards and paintings, he supports and encourages her. Maud's determination for her art, along with her partnership with Everett, blossoms into a career as a famous folk artist. Based on a true story, the film stars Ethan Hawke and Sally Hawkins, both of whom provide award-worthy performances.