Logline:

Obsessed painter John Everett Millais searches for a real Ophelia through the body of Elizabeth Siddal, willing to stop at nothing for the perfect painting.

Director’s Statement: My name is Grace Atkin. I'm the writer, director, and co-producer of Kill Your Darling, a short film exploring themes of obsession and insanity through the lens of John Everett Millais. As we bend the world of the famous painting, Ophelia, the character of Millais bleeds through the canvas.

I fell in love with Hamlet and this painting when I was young, fascinated with Ophelia's character. However, the story behind the painting left an imprint on me.

Synopsis:

John Everett Millais, a young painter, invites the beautiful, naive Elizabeth to be his model for Ophelia, his masterpiece. Elizabeth, an artist herself, looking for quick cash so she can pursue her passion, accepts Millais’ request. From the moment she arrives at his house, there is an unknown tension in the air. He feels a bit shy at the start, but as they talk more, it’s quite apparent that his vision commands the conversation.

For the painting, Elizabeth must pose in a bathtub full of water, initially warmed with oil lamps and candles placed beneath. As time passes by, the lamps run out, and the water gets colder and colder. Elizabeth’s discomfort is slowly becoming apparent, and still she tries to keep it professional. Her skin changes color, and yet she lies motionless. Finally, when she brings it up to the painter, his only care is for his work and whether she is posed correctly, not her well-being. Millais grows increasingly frustrated and snaps, finding a new way to keep his model still and disciplined.

Cost Breakdown:

Location: $1500

Production Design/Costumes: $500

Craft Services & Miscellaneous: $500