R.I.P. Natasha Richardson

Natasha Richardson (1963-2009)

There isn't much that I can add that hasn't already been said. This is a tragic situation and just plain sad. It's best to remember that she had a loving husband and family. That she also gave birth to some incredible performances and that is what actors want, to leave something behind that can be shared by all.

For me, the two that stand out are Gothic (1986), a Ken Russell film centered around the booze and drug induced weekend that spurned imaginations to create characters like Frankenstein's Monster and the legend of the Vampire. Richardson played Mary Shelly in this sometime over the top, but very atmospheric and enjoyable film.

Next was her incredible, in my opinion best, performance in Paul Schrader's Patty Hearst (1988). This was a stylish and very subjective film and Richardson was incredible in the title role. It's one of those performances that must have left her emotionally exhausted by the end and it can be felt through every pore. This is out of print on DVD, but is available for streaming on Netflix. Well worth checking out.

Ms. Richardson was the daughter of great talents as well. Her mother is the well known actress Vanessa Redgrave and her father was the great filmmaker Tony Richardson. Both of whom have several films worth looking into.

My deepest condolences to her family and friends.