‘A Good Woman’

1. ‘A Good Woman’ Directed by Mike Barker Screenwriter: Howard Himelstein

2. Director’s Statement: • We set ‘A Good Woman’ in Italy and updated the original play to the 1930s, to add a beautiful backdrop to what was originally a parlour piece. • The period update was to help the story line feel more current and immediate, and to remove it from the moral corset of its original setting. • I have always loved Italy and I certainly loved working with this Italian crew – they had passion and commitment.

3. ‘A Good Woman’ is an ensemble piece, but it is Oscar Wilde who takes centre stage, and the film is shot simply and elegantly to reflect his dialogue and his story.

4. Producer/Screenwriter’s Statement • ‘Lady Windermere’s Fan’ has universal appeal. Although technically a period piece, the story possesses enough modern sensibilities and humour to attract 21st century audiences. • I chose setting the film in the 30s because in many respects, it was an era that closely mirrors today – a time deeply divided by the haves and the have nots.

5. I felt there was no reason why all the main characters had to be English. By making the Windermere’s and Mrs Erlynne Americans, I’ve opened the story up to a more international audience. • Aside for the fears of social stigmatisation and moral standards that are intrinsic to the plot of the play, these characters can easily be modern day Americans and Europeans vacationing in Italy.

6. We could no longer use the title ‘Lady Windermere’s Fan’. I went back to Oscar Wilde’s original title, ‘A Good Woman’, which reflects the story’s astute social criticism, but also contains a double edged irony.