The Wife (film)
Plot Summary
The Wife is a 2017 drama film directed by Björn Runge, based on the novel of the same name by Meg Wolitzer. The film stars Glenn Close as Joan Castleman, the wife of a renowned author, Joe Castleman, played by Jonathan Pryce. The narrative explores the complex dynamics of their marriage, particularly focusing on the sacrifices Joan has made over the years and the secrets that underpin their relationship.
The plot unfolds as Joe Castleman is announced as the recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature. The couple travels to Stockholm for the award ceremony, and as the events progress, Joan begins to reflect on her life choices and the compromises she has made for Joe's career. The film delves into themes of gender roles, artistic recognition, and personal fulfillment.
Cast and Characters
- Glenn Close as Joan Castleman
- Jonathan Pryce as Joe Castleman
- Christian Slater as Nathaniel Bone
- Max Irons as David Castleman
- Elizabeth McGovern as Elaine Mozell
- Annie Starke as Young Joan Castleman
- Harry Lloyd as Young Joe Castleman
Production
The film's production involved a collaboration between several international companies, including Meta Film, Tempo Productions, and Silver Reel. Principal photography took place in various locations, including Glasgow, Scotland, and Stockholm, Sweden. The screenplay was adapted by Jane Anderson, who sought to capture the nuanced emotional landscape of Wolitzer's novel.
Themes and Analysis
The Wife explores several critical themes, including the often-unrecognized contributions of women in the literary world. Joan Castleman's character serves as a lens through which the film examines the societal expectations placed on women and the personal costs of living in the shadow of a more publicly celebrated spouse.
The film also addresses the concept of ghostwriting, as it is revealed that Joan has been the true author behind Joe's acclaimed works. This revelation challenges the traditional notions of authorship and artistic ownership, raising questions about the ethics of literary fame and the sacrifices made for creative success.
Reception
The Wife received critical acclaim, particularly for Glenn Close's performance, which was widely regarded as one of the best of her career. The film holds a high rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has been praised for its compelling storytelling and strong character development. Close's portrayal of Joan Castleman earned her several awards, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama.
Box Office
The film performed well at the box office, grossing over $20 million worldwide. Its success was bolstered by positive word-of-mouth and the strong performances of its lead actors.
Awards and Nominations
The Wife garnered numerous accolades, with Glenn Close receiving the lion's share of the recognition. In addition to her Golden Globe win, she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film also received nominations from various critics' associations and film festivals.
Cultural Impact
The film has sparked discussions about the role of women in the arts and the often-unseen labor that supports celebrated figures. It has also contributed to a broader conversation about gender dynamics in professional and personal relationships.
See Also
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