Sometimes I Think About Dying Examines A Desperate Need For Freedom and Escape
Living on the dreary Oregon coast, Fran (Daisy Ridley) finds comfort in her mundane corporate job working every day in a cubicle in Sometimes I Think About Dying. Floating her way through life, she sneaks out of her world of isolation by going on a date with her friendly and persistent coworker Robert (Dave Merheje). Fran must push against all of her natural instincts in order to connect with Robert and pull herself out of her solitary life.
Daisy Ridley is phenomenal in this role, really diving into the subtlety of the character. Much of the scenes are shots held for long stretches of time, allowing you to really sit in the feelings of the scene and the performance of the character. Though Fran as a character isn’t likable on the surface, her behavior and emotions force you to empathize with her.
An extremely interesting decision made by the screenwriter is that you don’t hear Fran speak until she meets Robert about thirty minutes into the movie. This use of behavior further engrains the idea that Fran lives a life of isolation and observation. She would much rather experience something by watching, than in partaking herself. This is evident in her actions not only at work but also at home when she’s alone. She is regimented and has strict routines, but does not seem to take pleasure in them.
The main setting of the movie is Fran and Robert’s office, which is home to the most mundane cubicles that reflect corporate America’s draining work culture. The small talk and forced bonding makes Fran visually uncomfortable, as she tends to leave group gatherings quickly and participate minimally. This movie perfectly portrays what it is like to be forced to work at a job while dealing with mental illness. Though it is never expressed outright, it is clear that Fran is dealing with anxiety and possibly depression.
The isolation and mundanity of her life lead Fran to fantasize about death. The lack of connection she feels is not a unique experience, but rather a reflection of a societal and work culture that no longer serves people the way it once was. It is far too easy to pull away from others and drown in your own thoughts. Fran attempts to pull herself out of this mindset in her relationship with Robert, but still struggles to be open and honest with him.
Fran’s fantasies of death are shown in times of emotional distress and are all set outside. The visuals of Fran’s body in the forest or on the beach symbolize the freedom she believes will come in her death. It isn’t that she wants to die, but rather sees it as an escape from the world in which she resides.
Sometimes I Think About Dying is a dissection of mental health as it effects daily life and work. Daisy Ridley portrays the subtlety and discomfort of trying to live a normal life while coping with anxiety and depression. All we want as humans is connection and this film examines just how we as people all long for the same thing.
Sometimes I Think About Dying is in theaters now.
