About My Beautiful Broken Brain

My Beautiful Broken Brain is a documentary film that was released in 2016. The film explores the journey of Lotje Sodderland, a vibrant and independent woman who suffers a life-altering stroke at the age of 34. Directed by Sophie Robinson and Lotje Sodderland, the documentary offers an intimate and deeply personal exploration of Sodderland's experiences as she navigates through the complex and often frustrating process of neuro recovery.

Explore

• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music / Soundtrack

About

The film begins with Lotje Sodderland sharing her story in her own words. She describes the moment when she experienced her stroke and the immediate aftermath, including her inability to speak and comprehend language. As she undergoes various treatments and therapies, the documentary provides an inside look into her cognitive and emotional struggles, as well as her resilience and determination to reclaim her life.

Throughout the film, Sodderland's journey is complemented by interviews with neuroscientists, doctors, and other stroke survivors. These experts offer insights into the brain's capacity for recovery and the intricate workings of neuroplasticity. As Sodderland makes progress in her recovery, she also grapples with her new identity and the challenges of adjusting to her altered brain.

Making / Production

My Beautiful Broken Brain was directed by Sophie Robinson and Lotje Sodderland. The film was produced in collaboration with David Lynch, the acclaimed director known for his surreal and atmospheric style. Lynch's involvement added a unique artistic touch to the documentary, enhancing the visual storytelling and emphasizing the subjective experience of Sodderland's journey.

Actors

• Lotje Sodderland - The protagonist of the documentary, Lotje Sodderland portrays herself in a deeply authentic and vulnerable manner, providing an intimate look into her daily struggles and triumphs.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• My Beautiful Broken Brain initially started as a blog by Lotje Sodderland. Her writings about her experiences led to the development of the documentary.
• The documentary received critical acclaim for its honest and sensitive portrayal of the impact of stroke on the human brain and identity.

Awards

My Beautiful Broken Brain has garnered several awards and nominations, including:

• Winner - Official Selection for the Edinburgh International Film Festival
• Nominated - Best Documentary at the British Independent Film Awards

Quotes

• "I felt like a tourist inside my own body." - Lotje Sodderland
• "The brain is the most complex thing we know. It's the most extraordinary creation in the universe." - Dr. Hageman

Music / Soundtrack

The soundtrack for My Beautiful Broken Brain features an atmospheric and dreamlike score composed by Andy Cowton. The music adds to the overall emotional impact of the film and helps to convey the inner turmoil and resilience of the protagonist.