Article Overview
Independent drama Herself gains newfound success on Netflix's global top 10 three years after its release, surprising viewers with its low-profile cast and team.
Herself's themes, like those of Netflix's popular miniseries Maid, are likely to deeply resonate with audiences, potentially boosting its popularity.
Despite its modest size, the movie benefits from the expertise of its accomplished director, Phyllida Lloyd, who adds credibility to the film and grabs the attention of Netflix viewers.
Herself, a 2020 independent drama directed by Phyllida Lloyd, has emerged as a surprise hit on Netflix's global top 10 after three years since its initial release. Securing the no. 10 spot, the film garnered 4.1 million views during the week of October 30 to November 5. Topping the charts were Locked In (no. 1), Pain Hustlers (no. 2), and Cold Pursuit (no. 3), amassing 17.8 million, 15.2 million, and 8.8 million views, respectively. Starring Clare Dunne, Molly McCann, Ruby Rose O'Hara, and Ian Lloyd Anderson, Herself tells the compelling story of a woman who courageously escapes her abusive husband and embarks on a courageous journey to construct her own home, overcoming the challenges of finding shelter for herself and her children.
Why Is Herself Receiving A Comeback Now?
Herself, with its modest cast and crew, has surprisingly made it to the Netflix Global top 10. Despite earning a mere $779k at the box office worldwide, it is not uncommon for films with minimal theatrical success to find their way into the Netflix top 10. However, it is unusual to see movies of this kind reaching such popularity.
It is not entirely unexpected that the film has become a sleeper hit among Netflix viewers. While not sharing the same plot, Maid, a successful miniseries on Netflix that premiered in 2021, delved into similar themes of navigating housing in cases of domestic abuse. Maid was highly praised both by critics and audiences, so it is possible that Herself's viewership includes overlap from that particular audience. Furthermore, Herself boasts a respectable Rotten Tomatoes rating of 94%, with critics commending the sensitively handled story and the emotional performance by Dunne.
With unfamiliar names comprising the cast, Herself boasts the support of a seasoned director. Lloyd, the director and producer, gained recognition for her successful 2008 musical Mamma Mia!, marking her debut in feature films. Despite being a smaller-scale production for Lloyd, Herself has captured the interest of Netflix viewers and earned a position on the streamer's Top 10 chart.
Editor's P/S
Herself is a hidden gem of a film that deserves more attention. It's a powerful and moving story about a woman who escapes her abusive husband and builds a new life for herself and her children. The film is beautifully shot and acted, and it's full of hope and inspiration. I highly recommend it.
I think the reason Herself has become so popular on Netflix is because it's a relatable story. Domestic abuse is a serious problem, and it's something that many people can relate to. The film shows the strength and resilience of women who have been through abuse, and it's a reminder that there is hope for a better future.
