The BBC's latest installment of the series 'A Ghost Story for Christmas' premiered on December 24, 2024, with 'Woman of Stone,' adapting Edith Nesbit's classic short story. Set against the backdrop of Victorian England, the film weaves together ghostly folklore and the grim realities of domestic life, illustrating the dark undercurrents of marital relationships.
Directed by Mark Gatiss, 'Woman of Stone' stars Éanna Hardwicke and Phoebe Horn as newlyweds Jack and Laura, who move to the countryside seeking peace and inspiration. Their idyllic setting quickly becomes overshadowed by the chilling legend recounted by their housekeeper, Mrs. Dorman, played by Monica Dolan. The ghostly tale of two medieval knights, said to rise every Christmas Eve and seek retribution against wronged wives, takes center stage, reflecting the fears and social constraints facing women of the time.
Gatiss’s adaptation shifts the original narrative perspective from Nesbit's male narrator to focus on Laura's experience, showcasing the toxic masculinity embodied by her husband, Jack. Critics have pointed out the clever juxtaposition of supernatural elements with the harsh realities of domestic oppression, creating a narrative ripe with modern relevance. The film not only aims to terrify but also to provoke thought about historical and contemporary issues facing women.
Through haunting visuals and poignant performances, especially by Horn as Laura, 'Woman of Stone' reveals the psychological horror of Jack's jealousy and condescendence. Jack's dismissive attitude toward Laura's writing career, juxtaposed with her own insecurities and the specters of the past, contribute to the film's unsettling atmosphere. Reviewers have noted how this thematic focus aligns with Gatiss’ tradition of infusing ghost stories with poignant social commentary, addressing topics like marital gaslighting and domestic violence.
Critics have remarked on the film's success at marrying the macabre and the thought-provoking. Celia Imrie shines as the weary but sharp-witted Edith Nesbit, whose character serves as both narrator and participant, unearthing her own troubles with marriage within the framework of the ghostly tale. Imrie's portrayal lends depth to the narrative, reminding viewers of the historical realities confronted by women then and now.
'Woman of Stone' does not shy away from discussing gender dynamics; instead, it confronts them directly. Mrs. Dorman, initially portrayed merely as the village's purveyor of ghost stories, evolves throughout the film to become a key figure of support and resistance against Jack's oppressive behavior. This shift showcases the strength of female solidarity and hints at the shared struggles faced by women trapped in abusive situations.
The supernatural aspects of the story are deeply entwined with the narrative's emotional core. The notion of the knights coming to life is not just folklore; it becomes symbolic of justice and retribution. The film cleverly uses the ghostly knights to comment on the real-life consequences of patriarchal oppression. Critics laud how Gatiss utilizes the supernatural not just for scares but as metaphors for the suffocative atmosphere of Victorian marriage.
While some may have expected the ghost story to be merely chilling, many reviews highlighted its excavation of psychological horror, which resonates with current social challenges. The success of 'A Ghost Story for Christmas: Woman of Stone' lies not only in its storytelling but also its ability to engage with themes of justice, punishment, and female empowerment.
Overall, the adaptation has been met with praise for its intriguing twists, compelling performances, and atmospheric direction. It opens new discussions around classics like Nesbit's work, redefining them with modern themes. This year's tale, much like its predecessors, proves to be not just a seasonal horror but also a reflection of enduring societal issues. Viewers can look forward to watching 'Woman of Stone' on iPlayer, with wider availability expected on PBS Passport by early 2025.
