The More You Ignore Me

The More You Ignore Me is a 2018 British comedy-drama film directed by Keith English, based on the novel of the same name by Jo Brand. The film follows the life of Alice (played by Ella Hunt), a teenage girl living in a small town in England who is struggling to cope with her mother Gina's (played by Sheridan Smith) mental illness.

Gina is a former musician who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and spends most of her time in a psychiatric hospital. Alice feels neglected by her father Keith (played by Mark Addy) who is struggling to cope with his wife's illness and spends most of his time at work.

Alice finds solace in the music of rock star Morrissey and starts writing him letters, which he responds to. She also starts to develop feelings for the new boy at school, Mark (played by Fionn Whitehead).

As Alice tries to navigate her complicated home life, she starts to experience hallucinations of a figure who she believes is trying to harm her family. Her increasing anxiety and paranoia cause her relationship with Mark to become strained, and she begins to spiral out of control.

Throughout the film, the audience is given insights into Gina's past as a musician and her complex relationship with Keith. As Alice's mental health deteriorates, the film delves into the impact that mental illness can have on families and the difficulties of growing up in such an environment.

The More You Ignore Me is a darkly humorous and touching film that has been praised for its performances and portrayal of mental illness. Sheridan Smith delivers a powerful performance as Gina, displaying both the highs and lows of her character's illness. Ella Hunt also impresses as Alice, portraying her character's vulnerability and anxiety with sensitivity and depth.

The film's soundtrack features songs by Morrissey and The Smiths, adding an additional layer of nostalgia and emotion to the story. The More You Ignore Me is a poignant and thought-provoking film that explores important themes and highlights the importance of understanding and supporting those who suffer from mental illness.