The More You Ignore Me

A bittersweet, quirky family portrait that balances mental illness with warmth and wry humour, anchored by strong performances and a nostalgic 80s soundtrack.

Directed by

Keith English

Genres

Comedy

Starring

Sheridan Smith, Mark Addy, Ella Hunt

Tagline

You definitely can't choose your family!

Overview

Based on Jo Brand's critically acclaimed novel of the same name, The More You Ignore Me is a warm, comedy drama focusing on the life of an unconventional family in 1980s rural England. The film focuses on Gina, a young mother, whose efforts to be a loving mother and wife are undermined by her declining mental health. Things deteriorate when she develops an obsession with the local weatherman, which leads to an admission to the nearby psychiatric hospital. Over the years, as she grows up, her daughter Alice struggles to relate to her heavily medicated mum, and causes chaos when she comes up with a plan to reconnect with her, which divides the family forever and leads to a moving climax. Set to the songs of The Smiths, The More You Ignore Me provides a sometimes stark, yet comical insight into life within this quirky household, whilst addressing mental health issues and their impact on the family.

How it feels

Melancholic, warm, light and cynical. Measured and needs your attention.

About

Family, identity, isolation, love

Content

Mild violence, sexual content and language. No gore.

Note

Written by AI, so it can be wrong. Full breakdown

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Watch the trailer on YouTube (opens in a new tab)