Portrait of Kaye is a documentary film that follows the life of Kaye, a 74-year-old woman who has been restricted by her lifelong agoraphobia, a condition that causes her to fear and avoid certain places or situations. Described as a bittersweet portrait, the film tells the story of Kaye's life and how she formed her unique identity while navigating the conflicting influences of her parents.
Kaye finds relief from her fears in the faces and lives of old film stars, such as Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe, and pastes their images alongside those of her deceased family on the walls of her house, creating a kaleidoscopic collage that mixes personal history with Hollywood fantasy. This serves as a window into her psyche and allows the viewer to understand her better.
The film is shot over two years, and the former next-door neighbor and music video director Ben Reed has captured Kaye's life in an intimate way. The camera stays focused on Kaye and her daily routine, which includes her fascination with old movies and her emotional attachment to her past. It also shows her interaction with the outside world, including her relationships with her younger neighbor Dave and her family members.
As the movie progresses, Kaye's infatuation with Dave becomes an opportunity for her to explore personal and sexual freedoms that were hidden away. This development provides a sense of hope and the possibility of a change in Kaye's life.
Overall, Portrait of Kaye is a touching meditation on family, film, and the meaning of freedom. It provides a fascinating insight into the life of a woman who has been living with a mental health condition for her entire life and how that has shaped her personality. The film is a beautiful tribute to Kaye's resilience and her desire to find happiness.