Watch Rid of Me: A Deep Dive into the 2011 Indie Film

Overview of "Rid of Me"

"Rid of Me," released in 2011, is an indie film written, directed, edited, and produced by James Westby. The movie stars Katie O'Grady as Meris Canfield, a woman who relocates from Irvine, California, to her husband's hometown in Oregon. The film is a raw portrayal of Meris's struggle to fit into a new community and her journey towards self-discovery.

Plot Summary

Meris Canfield, portrayed by Katie O'Grady, moves to a small town in Oregon with her husband, Mitch (John Keyser), after his computer firm goes bankrupt. The couple's relationship is strained, and Meris finds herself isolated and oppressed by Mitch's obnoxious high-school friends. The men are boorish, and the women are condescending, making Meris's life increasingly difficult.

When Mitch rekindles a relationship with his high-school girlfriend, played by Storm Large, Meris's world falls apart. She takes a job at a local candy store and befriends Trudy (Orianna Herrman), a goth coworker. This friendship leads Meris into the local punk scene, where she begins to rebel against her previous life. She engages in reckless behavior, including drinking, casual sex, and public performances, as a form of revenge against Mitch.

Character Analysis

Meris Canfield

Meris is depicted as a childlike and confused protagonist, struggling to find her place in a new environment. Her transformation from a dutiful wife to a rebellious punk is central to the film's narrative. Despite her erratic behavior, Meris's journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment.

Mitch Canfield

Mitch is portrayed as a self-centered and insensitive husband who fails to support Meris. His rekindled romance with his high-school girlfriend exacerbates Meris's feelings of inadequacy and isolation.

Trudy

Trudy, played by Orianna Herrman, is a goth coworker who introduces Meris to the punk scene. Her character serves as a catalyst for Meris's transformation, providing her with the support and friendship she desperately needs.

Cinematic Techniques

James Westby's directorial style in "Rid of Me" is characterized by rapid cuts, close-ups, and montages. These techniques are used to convey Meris's emotional turmoil and the chaotic nature of her new life. However, some critics argue that these methods can be disorienting and detract from the film's overall coherence.

Use of Montages

Westby frequently employs montages to tie together various narrative strands. These sequences are used to illustrate Meris's transformation and the resolution of the film's conflicts. While effective in some instances, the overuse of montages can feel forced and repetitive.

Close-Up Shots

The film's frequent use of close-up shots aims to provide an intimate look at the characters' emotions. However, this technique can sometimes feel intrusive and overly dramatic.

Critical Reception

"Rid of Me" received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the film's raw portrayal of personal transformation and its dark humor, others criticized its amateurish execution and lack of narrative coherence.

Positive Reviews

Critics who enjoyed the film highlighted its unique take on the coming-of-age genre and its unflinching depiction of Meris's journey. The performances of Katie O'Grady and Orianna Herrman were also praised for their authenticity and depth.

Negative Reviews

On the other hand, some critics found the film's narrative disjointed and its characters one-dimensional. The overuse of cinematic techniques, such as rapid cuts and close-ups, was also a point of contention.

Interesting Statistics

• Indie Film Success: Despite its mixed reviews, "Rid of Me" managed to carve out a niche audience and was featured in several film festivals, including the Tribeca Film Festival.
• Box Office Performance: The film had a modest box office performance, grossing approximately $20,000. Source: Box Office Mojo
• Audience Demographics: The film resonated particularly well with viewers aged 25-34, who appreciated its raw and unfiltered portrayal of personal struggles. Source: IMDb

Conclusion

"Rid of Me" is a thought-provoking film that explores themes of identity, societal expectations, and personal transformation. While its execution may be flawed, the film's raw portrayal of Meris's journey offers a unique perspective on the challenges of fitting into a new community and finding one's true self. Whether you love it or hate it, "Rid of Me" is a film that sparks conversation and leaves a lasting impression.

For more information on indie films and their impact on the film industry, check out IndieWire and Film Independent.