Léna is also a Regional Manager for Writopia Lab whose mission is to foster joy, literacy, and critical thinking in kids and teens from all backgrounds through creative writing.

"Well, the question is, what do you want to believe? Do you want to live in a world where things are possible, or in one where they aren't?" Cin, Edges.

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Camilla Dickinson by Madeleine L'Engle: the Movie!


I just got back from the West Coast where I saw the premiere of Camilla Dickinson, the film adaptation of my grandmother's first YA novel at the Seattle International Film Festival.

When we think of Madeleine L'Engle's body of work, CD may not jump out at you as the most cinematic.  However, my grandmother first wrote Camilla Dickinson for the stage and then decided to write it as a novel.

It is Madeleine's third published novel, and came out in 1951 just on the heels of J.D. Salinger's Catcher in the Rye. Camilla at the time was  deemed Holden's female counterpart, at a time when the world was more ready for a young and struggling MALE protagonist. Madeleine L'Engle wouldn't become well-known until 1962 when readers identified with her flawed protagonist Meg in A Wrinkle in Time.

I love my grandmother's earliest works - it's where I really feel her essence and her own struggle toward the light that mirrors my own.

So of course I had been looking forward to seeing Camilla in film since 1999 when my grandmother gave the script to one her many godchildren, the film-maker Cornelia Duryée Moore and told her to "have at it."

I wasn't disappointed.

Moore went through twenty seven revisions of the script before finding both the right tone and the funding to help her make this dream a reality. Armed with Larry Estes as a producer and a wonderful cast, Camilla has made her way onto the screen. It is a character driven book and remains a character driven movie. This is why the team had their choice of many brilliant actors to play these rich and complex roles, where all of the drama needs to be shown internally.

No, this is not a Hollywood, commercial film by any stretch of the imagination. It retains it's dark, coming-of-age themes, but has more of a sweetness at it's core. The character of Frank, dynamically  played by the very handsome British actor Gregg Sulkin, is not as dangerous as he appears in the book but we love him for it. Camilla herself is played gorgeously by Australian Adelaide Clemens as an icicle of a girl who is triangulated by her upper-class parents. She is an icicle who breaks out into her own personhood. Camilla's best friend and sister, Luisa Rowan is played flawlessly by Meisner specialist Colby Minifie. The emotions that these young actors are able to express through subtle changes in facial expressions was impressive.

And then of course, there was Cary Elwes and Samantha Mathis, expertly playing the roles of Camilla's detached father and emotionally fragile yet narcissistic mother.


It was a thrill to be there, and to watch Cornelia - who I have known since I was a struggling teen myself - present her labor of love to the world. We were able to have lunch with three of the actors before the premier on the boat that Corrie's dad built: Gregg, Colby, and another young actress named Rachel Grate who played the role of Pompilia. They are all so funny and down to earth - actors whose careers I will be watching closely. Actors who love to act, who challenge themselves to completely embody a role other than themselves.

I know what you are all asking yourselves: how can I get my hands on this? Well, the movie industry seems even crazier to me than the book industry - the way for you all to see this movie is for it to get bought by a bigger distributor. (Anybody know somebody who knows somebody?)

57 comments:

  1. It will be very hard to wait but....in the meantime I just got the book down from one of several Madeleine L'Engle shelves to reread. :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. Ooh, how exciting! Here's hoping it gets bought by a bigger distributor so we can all see it. :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. What a cool experience that must've been for you. I had not heard of the novel before this! Don't know any big distributors....

    ReplyDelete
  4. I wish I could help, because I surely do want to see this. The actors look perfect!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Oh, I'd love to see Camilla brought to life. Especially if they do it well. Can't wait. I'm a huge fan of all her YA books. :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. OMG!!!! who do i need to send a petition to? BTW, is Wrinkle in Time movie still in the works?

    ReplyDelete
  7. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  8. This was really something very special and interesting.
    dodge turnitin

    ReplyDelete
  9. Will probably be severely to have to wait however.... in the meantime I just got your book along via one of the Aspca Madeleine L'Engle racks to help reread.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Our partner as well as when i proceed through Systrom's rebuttal and one levels Our partner as well as i ran across may be that except you wish to be embroiled inside of becoming likely in the Instagram 'ad', make sure to won't 'like' corporations that produce every one of them. Critically, will anyone with a biz intellect GENUINELY proceed through this sort of a stool ahead of which they released this? Seems like a lot regarding somebodies sincerely never take the time to read TOGETHER WITH think about the distinct ramifications. catba resort

    ReplyDelete
  11. I really appreciate the kind of topics you post here. Thanks for sharing us a great information that is actually helpful. Good day!!!water damage dallas

    ReplyDelete
  12. As a beginner it is a perfect platform your blogs really helps to understand me in a much easier way i regular participate on your website.
    Agency Employment Services

    ReplyDelete
  13. Excellent blog whenever i feel bored i come here and i get so many new things over your blog thanks for sharing your knowledge able stuff I appreciate your blog. I would love to read more.
    Real Estate Agent In Downsview Park

    ReplyDelete
  14. Well, I observed genius writing skills and i love too read your blog regularly it is very entertaining and acquainting blog appreciate your wisdom.
    Grandviewfamilydentistry

    ReplyDelete
  15. Well, this is my first visit to your blog! You have a genuine capacity for composing extraordinary Stuff. It is a fantastic blog its really inspiring and full fill with knowledge.keep it up
    florida seo company

    ReplyDelete
  16. I am happy to find this post it's Very informative for me. This blog has useful information I must say you have ability to writing unique and informative content. It's a really inspiring blog with full of knowledge.
    natural whey protein

    ReplyDelete
  17. I really needed to build a fast remark keeping in mind the end goal to offer thanks to you for these remarkable substance you are putting on your site. You are continually leading a dynamite work. I should state you have composed incredible article. best schools in north delhi

    ReplyDelete
  18. Well I would like to congratulate to you amazing writing skills as a regular member of your blog I wanted to say this, it’s really informative blog good work!
    Jacksonville seo firm

    ReplyDelete
  19. It is a fantastic blog its really inspiring and full fill with knowledge i am very active person on your website pleasure to come here regularly looking forward with your next article. Excellent,keep it up.

    Get best ayurvedic treatment for kidney failure

    ReplyDelete
  20. A corporate film has the complete essence of a company's corporate image and strategy. Therefore it is very important to focus on the core competencies & other aspects relevant to a corporate film.teleprompter

    ReplyDelete
  21. Hi, your blog have very nice Information related to us, your all blog are very useful for everyone, I really like your all post. Thanks for sharing your experience with us and this type of information. I will definitely come back to more times in this year for submit more post. Keep trying to make best.Great Thanks!


    Ayurvedic Medicines For Kidney Failure

    ReplyDelete
  22. This is my first opportunity to visit your website and I am really enjoyed to spend time to your blog post.

    Avia Condos Brochure

    ReplyDelete
  23. Well, This is my first opportunity to visit this website.! You have a genuine capacity for composing extraordinary Stuff. It is a stunning work and its really inspiring and full fill with knowledge.

    Jacksonville SEO Company

    ReplyDelete

  24. Awesome Work, I like the helpful info you provide in your articles, you touched some nice factors here and you have a genuine capacity for composing extraordinary Stuff. It is a perfect work and it's really inspiring and full fill with knowledge.

    http://www.scoop.it/t/the-high-rise-of-toronto-95-lake-shore-blvd-condo-project

    ReplyDelete
  25. this article gives me mellow in which I can take away at the truth. this is top notch one and offers inside and out measurements. much obliged to you for this top notch article.
    best quality pukhraj

    ReplyDelete
  26. This illustration obviously demonstrates the advantage of remaining out of obligation. Getting cash to purchase your first auto sentences you to driving old autos unless you can discover some method for sparing while you are as yet making advance reimbursements. Deferring your first buy until the point when you can pay money puts you on an alternate cycle of driving close new autos, giving you can keep up your investment funds. Cash Advance San diego

    ReplyDelete

  27. When I was ended from my all day work in October 2011, I likewise scratched off my digital TV and telephone, however kept the network access so I could keep on looking for an occupation, yet for the most part I kept the link modem since I can't survive without the web.

    ReplyDelete
  28. I feel so fortunate to come to your blog to be a new member on your blog it's superb for me I generally get such huge numbers of new thing over your blog. I hope i will get more valuable knowledge in your blogs.trend micro help

    ReplyDelete

  29. BigPond (likewise known as Telstra) gives internet mail services in the entire of Australia. It was initially a federal government owned company however by the time the federal government sold its entire risks as well as now it is a totally privately possessed company.Bigpond Customer Service

    ReplyDelete
  30. Telstra (also referred to as Telstra) supplies web post in the entire of Australia. It was originally a government owned firm however by the time the federal government sold its entire stakes as well as currently it is an entirely independently possessed business.
    Telstra Technical Support

    ReplyDelete

  31. Garmin can be your shining star unmindful nighttimes. Make driving experiences all the all the more empowering and trouble free. With Garmin Nuvi near to, you know you are a star at finding a bar on end of the week nights even and no more present territory.
    garmin support phone number

    ReplyDelete
  32. I appreciate one more time for your informative blog. As usual i am feeling so fantastic to come here. Good work buddy. netflix helpline number

    ReplyDelete
  33. Great Post!!
    Hello, friends I am sharing some information with you. Friends I have a well-trained team who provide the Skype technical support. So, friends if you need any help regarding Skype just call the Skype customer care official number +1-855-505-7815.
    Skype Technical Support Number
    Skype Help Number
    Skype Support Phone Number
    Skype Tech and Help Support Number

    ReplyDelete
  34. Our digital strategists dive into your business analytics to put together strategies for reaching your business goals.
    When you have a great story about how your product or service was built to change lives, share it. online digital marketing

    ReplyDelete
  35. Advanced promoting is the showcasing of items or administrations utilizing computerized innovations, essentially on the Internet, yet additionally including cell phones, show publicizing, and some other computerized medium. http://rivr.sulekha.com/netfix-solution_36069400

    ReplyDelete
  36. Digital marketing encompasses all marketing efforts that use an electronic device or the internet. Businesses leverage digital channels such as search engines, social media, email, and their websites to connect with current and prospective customers.

    ReplyDelete
  37. I researched colored printers online for a long time and I am so happy I bought this printer. This is probably one of the best purchases I have made this entire year. The printer is super easy to use and isn't any hassle at all. It prints beautifully with all the barcodes and words coming out crisp and clear.As a small business owner, I only have seconds to adjust printer settings or make changes, and this printer makes it sooooooo easy.

    Ameri Technology

    ReplyDelete
  38. We highly appreciated the service that i got throughout the process. The cleaners were top notch. The house looks GREAT. Thanks , we will use your service again and also recomment to others.
    Zap Cleaning

    ReplyDelete
  39. We had a great experience. From scheduling our service to the work completed we were extremely happy. After explaining our long list of repairs, our appointment was scheduled quickly and our electricians arrived promptly and were very efficient. They knew exactly what to do and brought in all the right equipment to complete all the work in a few hours. They were professional and courteous and we will definitely be recommending American Electric Jacksonville to all of our neighbors and friends. Great experience! http://www.usnetads.com/view/item-130171545-American-Electric.html

    ReplyDelete
  40. They did an excellent job with our SEO campaign and with ensuring that parents were able to find us in a number of different ways that we didn't even think about prior to the campaign.
    Vinni Mittal

    ReplyDelete
  41. Norton Error 8504 100 emerges when a startling situation shows up or a required activity is indiscreetly conveyed. On the off chance that you face this mistake while chipping away at your framework, at that point it may prompt the smashing of the system. Connect with us on our specialized help number and converse with our specialists about the issue.

    ReplyDelete
  42. "This information is very useful to me. Please share more information about this. Thankyou for sharing this information with us.
    web designing company in Dwarka

    ReplyDelete
  43. Delta goes above & beyond in its efforts to create and deliver a great customer experience. Over the years, we have been continuing to raise the bar when it comes to putting the needs of the customer first. From the ground staff to the flight attendants, all employees align with Delta's ethos, treating their passengers with the core values of the airlines in mind. Learn more about the airline's codes and ethics by visiting Delta Airlines Website. Some of the Delta Airlines travel deals are quite rewarding, allowing you to save a lot of money as you travel with us

    ReplyDelete
  44. Allegiant Airlines Reservations provides the best airline services. It is the most important air carrier and the ninth-largest commercial airline in the United States, and the most reliable station can also provide the best quotes. With the help of the booking process, you can also check some points, such as checking the booking number of Allegiant tickets, baggage information, you can call our helpline at 1-844-604-0568 and get some airline-related information. Allegiant Airlines Reservations Number

    ReplyDelete
  45. https://www.techbadoo.com/2015/07/increase-your-blog-domain-authority-fast.html?showComment=1483425023567#c4238570396485038802
    https://www.google.com/search?q=%22It+is+a+fantastic+website+i+usually+to+come+here+to+enhance+the+knowledge+i+spend+a+great+time+on+your+website+i+appreciate+it.%22&rlz=1C1YTUH_enIN979&biw=1280&bih=913&sxsrf=AOaemvIpWwg9haPA1GNn3suxEDadreIUGQ%3A1636975641980&ei=GUSSYdqhO4TbrQH_6YDwDw&oq=%22It+is+a+fantastic+website+i+usually+to+come+here+to+enhance+the+knowledge+i+spend+a+great+time+on+your+website+i+appreciate+it.%22&gs_lcp=Cgdnd3Mtd2l6EAM6CggjEK4CELADECdKBAhBGAFQyRRYyx5g5yRoBHAAeACAAXaIAekBkgEDMC4ymAEAoAEBoAECyAEBwAEB&sclient=gws-wiz&ved=0ahUKEwiakpW9oZr0AhWEbSsKHf80AP44FBDh1QMIDg&uact=5&shem=ssmd#cobssid=s
    http://www.an-van.com/2016/12/anna-brain-for-kiabi-i-want-it.html?showComment=1636975888567#c9208482142501277694
    http://www.metromaniladirections.com/2014/01/probably-best-driving-ad-out-there.html?showComment=1636975922844#c144127693302344522
    http://blog.sodhanalibrary.com/2014/08/append-or-prepend-html-to-div-using.html?showComment=1636975928824#c5246717702835776681
    http://www.arcticfever.com/2011/05/arcticantarctic-birthday-present.html
    http://www.adekumalaputri.com/2014/05/tutorial-4minute-sohyun-whatcha-doin.html?showComment=1636975947632#c4780324282988567169

    ReplyDelete

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.