Meaning: The quote refers to the film "My Brilliant Career," which was released in 1979 and directed by Gillian Armstrong. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Miles Franklin, which was originally published in 1901. The story is set in rural Australia and follows the journey of a young woman named Sybylla Melvyn as she navigates her aspirations for independence and creativity in a society that expects her to conform to traditional gender roles.

In the quote, Judy Davis, the actress who played the protagonist Sybylla Melvyn, reflects on her experience working on the film. She acknowledges the film's beautiful direction while expressing some difficulty with her portrayal of the character. Davis also critiques the script, describing it as "silly" and noting that it was based on a book written by a 16-year-old girl.

Davis's commentary on the script and its origins sheds light on the source material and its author, Miles Franklin. The novel "My Brilliant Career" was indeed written by Franklin when she was just 16 years old, under the pseudonym Brent of Bin Bin. The semi-autobiographical nature of the novel reflects Franklin's own experiences growing up in rural Australia and her desire to pursue a literary career despite societal expectations.

The film adaptation of "My Brilliant Career" garnered critical acclaim for its portrayal of a strong-willed and independent female protagonist, as well as its exploration of themes such as gender roles, class dynamics, and personal ambition. The direction by Gillian Armstrong was particularly praised for its evocative depiction of the Australian landscape and its ability to capture the emotional depth of the characters.

However, Davis's comments suggest that she may have had reservations about the portrayal of Sybylla Melvyn and the interpretation of the script. It's important to note that actors often have complex relationships with the characters they portray and the creative decisions made during the production of a film. Davis's acknowledgment of her own "trouble" with the role indicates a personal struggle with embodying the character and reconciling her interpretation with the script and source material.

Despite Davis's critique of the script, "My Brilliant Career" remains a significant work in Australian cinema, known for its exploration of feminist themes and its contribution to the representation of women's experiences on screen. The film's enduring impact underscores the timeless relevance of the story and its continued resonance with audiences.

In conclusion, Judy Davis's reflection on her involvement in "My Brilliant Career" offers insight into the complexities of adapting a novel to the screen and the challenges of portraying a compelling and multi-dimensional character. Her comments invite further exploration of the film's reception, the legacy of the source material, and the ongoing relevance of its themes in contemporary discourse on gender, ambition, and individuality.