By Our Selves 2015
Dive into *By Our Selves (2015)*, Andrew Kötting's hauntingly poetic documentary-drama that follows the tragic yet profound final journey of Romantic poet John Clare.
Director: Andrew Kötting
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is By Our Selves (2015) about?
*By Our Selves* traces the final escape of John Clare, the so-called 'peasant poet,' as he wanders from Epping Forest to Northamptonshire in the early 19th century. Haunted by isolation and the encroachment of modernity, Clare's pilgrimage becomes a metaphor for both liberation and despair, framed by the eerie presence of a straw bear—a symbol of ancient folklore.
Who directed By Our Selves?
Andrew Kötting directed *By Our Selves*, crafting a visually striking and thematically rich film that bridges documentary and drama.
Who stars in By Our Selves?
The film features Toby Jones as John Clare, Freddie Jones in a pivotal role, alongside Iain Sinclair, Alan Moore, and Simon Kövesi.
Is By Our Selves (2015) worth watching?
*By Our Selves* is a niche but rewarding watch for fans of poetic cinema and historical drama. While it may lack mainstream appeal, its atmospheric storytelling and powerful performances—particularly Toby Jones's portrayal of Clare—elevate it above typical biographical films. The 80-minute runtime keeps it taut and focused, though its abstract nature might not suit all viewers.
How long is By Our Selves?
*By Our Selves* has a runtime of 80 minutes.
About By Our Selves (2015) — A Poetic Journey Through John Clare's Footsteps
Dive into *By Our Selves (2015)*, Andrew Kötting's hauntingly poetic documentary-drama that follows the tragic yet profound final journey of Romantic poet John Clare. Escaping the confines of Epping Forest, Clare embarks on a solitary trek to Northamptonshire, a quest that mirrors his internal struggles and the fading beauty of the English countryside. Accompanied by a symbolic straw bear—a figure steeped in folklore and myth—this cinematic odyssey blends raw nature with deep introspection, evoking themes of freedom, madness, and the relentless passage of time. Kötting's lens captures the melancholic elegance of Clare's world, where every frame feels like a meditation on the delicate balance between human fragility and the untamed wild.
Toby Jones delivers a masterful performance as Clare, breathing life into the poet's tormented soul, while Freddie Jones and Iain Sinclair provide gravitas as silent observers of his unraveling mind. The film's atmospheric dialogue and stark visuals create an immersive experience, transporting viewers to a bygone era where the land itself seems to whisper secrets. With its blend of documentary realism and dramatic storytelling, *By Our Selves* is more than a retracing of history—it's a visceral exploration of artistic genius and the landscapes that shape it.