Susanna Tells Will It Was Judith Who Wrote the Verse

Written by Ben Elton for the film *All Is True*, this dramatic duologue captures an intimate outdoor exchange between Will and his daughter Susanna. Walking together, they navigate painful family dynamics regarding legacy, recognition, and unresolved grief over a lost sibling. The conversation shifts from an unvarnished confrontation about family neglect into a quiet, profound confession about the total disappearance of Will's creative spirit.

Will is a seasoned artist wrestling with grief, regret, and the sudden silence of his inner creative voice. His emotional arc moves from defensiveness and lingering insensitivity toward raw, unadorned vulnerability as he admits his fear of feeling empty. Susanna is insightful, candid, and deeply grounded. She challenges her father directly about his blind spots while remaining an affectionate presence who desires to see him rejoin the living world.

The piece offers exceptional balance between active confrontation and reflective vulnerability within a compact two-minute window. Rather than relying on heightened theatricality, the script demands deep internal life, restraint, and generous partner work. Will receives a striking dramatic confession regarding artistic burnout, while Susanna controls the rhythm of the conversation, demonstrating emotional intelligence and resolute vocal strength.

This scene is well suited for drama school auditions, self-tape submissions, agent showcases, and advanced scene-study classes. It provides excellent material for actors falling into Patriarch, Leading Man, Dramatic, Ingenue, or Vulnerable casting types. Performers seeking to demonstrate stillness, gravitas, and layered emotional range will find the piece ideal for showcasing their craft.

Focus on the familial reality rather than any legendary historical context, allowing the conversation to feel immediate and human. Susanna should ensure her direct reproaches come from a place of care rather than malice, keeping her attention firmly on guiding her father back to reality. Will must avoid leaning into melodrama during his confessional speech; playing against the sadness with genuine confusion and quiet honesty will make the moment far more compelling.