Maudie

An indefatigable outsider battles social prejudice, her gruff husband and near-crippling arthritis to become one of Canada's most loved folk artists in this biopic inspired by the life of Maud Lewis. Lewis's rare gift flourishes only after she's escaped from the bosom of an uncaring family and riskily thrown herself on the mercy of a rough and ready fish pedlar (Ethan Hawke, cast against type), who mistreats her at first until their unconventional relationship - based on two misfits clinging together to make the best of it - has bedded in. It's a touching and unexpected story, with British actress Sally Hawkins rising to the demanding challenge of the title role, not just in suggesting Lewis's gnarled physique but also her life-affirming response to nature, which made her child-like drawings of flora and fauna so disarming. The true-life origins are underplayed, which allows the emotions to speak for themselves and it's hard to fault either of the leads, though it's fair to say we're always aware how hard they're working to realise these unusual, ultimately worthwhile roles.