Miss Virginia
signature ukMiss Virginia is a film based on Eleonor Holmes Norton, a single mother from Washington D.C. who spent years advocating for low-income families. This film, in particular, follows her journey throughout her fight for a federally funded scholarship program in the early 2000s. A program that will give underprivileged students the means to escape failing public schools. Directed by R.J. Daniel Hanna, Miss Virginia makes way for a thought provokingly and impactful message.
Uzo Aduba’s performance as Virginia Walden is undeniably heartfelt and fabulously executed. Her strong performance is be felt through the warmth and authenticity of her character. Aduba translates the true message of the film in a way that audience members can truly relate and connect with. Miss Virginia portrays a strong sense of unity and partnership in favor of the common good. From depictions of organized marches and peaceful protests, to council meetings and congressional votes. This film constantly pushes for a narrative of community and togetherness.
Hanna’s direction allowed for significant contrast throughout the duration of the film. Niles Fitch’s performance as James Walden acted as much of this particular divergence from the main tone. His activity – both in and out of school – during the first half of the film were direct contradictions of everything his mother and their loved ones were advocating for. James’ susceptibility to negative influences from outside sources greatly accentuated the dire need for change in his area.
Whilst the film mainly revolves around Walden’s activism in education, the overall process of passing the act isn’t as true to life as it is portrayed to be. In reality, legislation can take years until becoming fully enacted. However, the run-time of this film made the process feel a bit too rushed and didn’t allow much time for steady development. Though the political progress of the act felt rushed at times, Miss Virginia’s main purpose, more times than not, is to shed light on Walden’s personal journey. Focusing on Walden’s impactful activism that sparked mass amounts of change served more as an inspiration as opposed to an analysis.
R.J. Daniel Hanna’s Miss Virginia is ultimately a story structured around the impact of community. This goes hand in hand with the importance of dedication and persistence when it comes to standing up for an honorable cause. Due to Eleonor Holmes Norton’s persistent advocacy, the lives of thousands of children from low-income families have been impacted for years to come.
