Vita and Virginia

 Thinking Activity :

 Movie Screening :

This blog is based on thinking activity task. In this blog we will cosider some of the question regarding the movie. 

Vita and Virginia

"Vita & Virginia" is a movie about two famous writers, Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West, who fall in love in the 1920s.

Vita is outgoing and different from what people expect, while Virginia is very smart but sometimes feels sad. They help each other write and create stories. But sometimes they feel jealous or worried because of what people think. Even though they face difficulties, their love stays strong. Their story shows how love can be complicated but also inspiring. They teach us that it's okay to be different and love who we want, even if it's hard.

The film, directed by Chanya Button, focuses on a small part of their lives when they lived in London and were part of the art scene.

Who do you think is initiating the relationship, Vita or Virginia? Who do you think is taking advantage of this relationship?  

In the movie, Vita is really interested in Virginia right from the start. She tries her best to meet her at Bloomsbury and observe her. Vita is initially attracted to Virginia because she thinks Virginia is an amazing writer. In one scene, while Virginia is distracted in a greenhouse, Vita finds her and says, "When I read your writing, I feel both sad and hopeful." Virginia asks why, and Vita explains, "Sad, because I know I'll never be able to write like you, but hopeful, because someone else can." This shows how much Vita admires Virginia's talent.

Who do you think is taking advantage of this relationship?  

According to me, Vita was already a well-known writer when she met Virginia, who wasn't as famous at the time. Vita's popularity might have made her feel like she couldn't fully commit to just one person, hence the "candle" analogy. Some might think she used Virginia for her own enjoyment and kept her own life secret. Meanwhile, Virginia writing a biography about Vita helped her become more famous too. It's not easy to say who's right or wrong; it depends on how you look at it. It's a complex situation with different angles to consider.

Who do you think is confused about their identity Vita or Virginia? Explain with illustrations.


Both Vita and Virginia face challenges with understanding who they are, but in different ways.

Vita Sackville-West feels torn between what society expects of her as a woman and her own desires for freedom. She lives a bold life, exploring her bisexuality and having many love affairs, which can be confusing.

Virginia Woolf struggles with mental health issues like depression, which affect how she sees herself. She often feels unsure of her worth and place in the world.

Vita's confusion might be shown in her unconventional relationships, while Virginia's might be seen in her struggles with mental health.

In simple terms, both Vita and Virginia are trying to figure out who they are and where they fit in, dealing with different challenges along the way.



What is society’s thought about women and identity? Do you agree with them? If Yes then why? If no then why?

Women's roles in society have changed a lot over time. In the past, they were mainly expected to stay at home and take care of the family. But now, women are making their mark in many different areas, like work and decision-making.

 They've fought for and gained important rights, like the right to vote. People like Virginia Woolf have spoken up for women's independence and identity. While progress has been made, there's still work to do in breaking down old stereotypes and giving women equal opportunities.

   Write a note on your observations of the society during that era.

In the film, the Bloomsbury group is depicted as a forward-thinking community that embraces unconventional relationships and freely discusses sexual matters. 

They accept lesbian and gay relationships openly and view extra-marital affairs as normal. 

However, Vita's mother, Lady Sackville, represents the conservative side, opposing her daughter's radical views and threatening to cut her off from her children. Despite Vita's wealth, she faces limitations due to her gender, forcing her into traditional roles despite her own desires.

Vita and Virginia's relationship is accepted within the Bloomsbury circle, highlighting their modernist ideals. 

Leonard, a loyal friend, supports them through various challenges. The group rallies around Virginia, providing support as she struggles with mental health issues. 

The movie portrays the clash between societal norms and the progressive values of the Bloomsbury group during that time.

Write a note on the direction of the movie. Which symbols and space caught your attention while watching the movie?

The movie depicts Vita as a strong advocate for independence, both in her personal life and relationships. She plays a significant role in empowering Virginia, encouraging her to overcome challenges and explore new aspects of herself. 

One scene, where Vita proposes they travel together, highlights her boldness and its effect on Virginia's emotions. The imagery of plants growing around Virginia symbolizes her inner turmoil and the stirring of desire prompted by Vita's adventurous spirit.

 Overall, Vita's character exemplifies courage and resilience, inspiring Virginia to embrace her own strength and creativity.

 "Vita and Virginia" had to be made into a Bollywood Adaptation, who do you think would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia ? 

For the role of Vita Sackville- West: 

Kangana Ranaut: Known for her versatility and ability to portray strong and complex characters, Kangana could bring the necessary charisma and depth to the role of Vita Sackville-West.

for Virginia Woolf: Swara Bhaskar: With her acting prowess and ability to portray nuanced characters, Swara Bhaskar could embody the complexities and intellect of Virginia Woolf.

Both actresses have demonstrated their talent in portraying diverse characters and could bring their own interpretations to the roles of Vita and Virginia in a Bollywood adaptation of "Vita and Virginia."