There will come that day when you reach that age and wonder if you still have value in this world. In Rani DeMuth’s short film, And Now I Lay Me Down, sadly that day seems to come quickest for every actress ever.
Celia Dalvi (Jane Kaczmarek) is a beloved, award-winning actress whose time has suddenly passed. The film opens with Celia at her stylist’s hair salon, looking over the divorce papers from her husband (Eric Roberts) and then heading home alone to her mansion and staff. After being informed that she will lose the role of a woman her age because she is too old, Celia decides she’s done and makes preparations for a grand exit.

“…Celia decides she’s done and makes preparations for a grand exit.”
It’s hard to lose when you cast the perfect actress for the perfect role. And Now I Lay Me Down is the all-too-familiar story of finding value in ourselves at every stage of life. Veteran actor Kaczmarek hits each note perfectly as Celia shifts between dream and reality in her mind, all leading to its poignant ending. Thanks to DeMuth’s script and direction, the story is paced beautifully, and the film’s look and tone are spot on. When you hit rock bottom, it’s time to look up.