On May 15th, Seattle filmmaker Lynn Shelton died from a blood disorder at 54. Shelton was known for her intimate style of filmmaking, which was frequently both touching and funny, and for her commitment to making films about (and filming them in) Seattle. As her career moved forward, she worked with bigger and bigger stars – she directed four episodes of the acclaimed Hulu series Little Fires Everywhere – but always retained her independent spirit, which are on display with her films, many of which can be streamed on Kanopy and Hoopla.
We Go Way Back (2006) is a small, intimate film about 23-year Kate, who’s quarter-life crisis is exacerbated when she discovers letters from her 13-year-old self and realizes in ten years time she went from an ambitious teenager to idle young adult. Little seen and lacking star power, Shelton would wait three years for widespread recognition with Humpday (2009). Taking bromance to a new level, Humpdayfollows Ben (Mark Duplass) and Andrew (Joshua Leonard), fiercely competitive friends who, after a drunken night, agree to the ultimate dare – set aside their heterosexuality and make a porn film together, in the name of art. Funny and slightly squirmy, Shelton’s smart commentary on the politics of masculinity won her a Special Jury Prize at Sundance.
Touchy Feely (2013) explores the power of connection, literally and figuratively. Abby (Rosemarie DeWitt) is a freewheeling massage therapist who suddenly finds the human body revolting, while her brother Paul (Josh Pais), an uptight dentist with a failing practice, suddenly develops the healing touch that Abby has lost. Bolstered by winning supporting performances from Allison Janney and Ellen Page, Touchy Feely is unassuming and pleasant. In Laggies, Shelton returns to the roots of her first film as 25-year-old Megan (Keira Knightley), who freaks out when her boyfriend proposes marriage; she meets 16-year-old Annika (Chloë Grace Moretz), outside of a supermarket looking for someone to buy beer, and in no time Megan moves into Annika’s house with her suspicious but intrigued dad (Sam Rockwell).
Shelton’s films are a masterclass in understatement. With relatable characters whose struggles with responsibility and expectations mirror our own, Shelton’s movies are a treat for film goers who appreciate warmth, depth, and well-rounded characters. She will be deeply missed.
~posted by Frank
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