The Wife

The Wife is a 2017 drama film directed by Björn Runge, based on the novel of the same name by Meg Wolitzer. The film follows the story of a devoted wife, Joan Castleman (Glenn Close), who has spent her life sacrificing her dreams for the success of her husband, Joe Castleman (Jonathan Pryce), a celebrated writer who is about to receive the Nobel Prize for Literature.

As the couple travels to Stockholm for the award ceremony, tensions begin to rise between them. Joan is plagued with doubts about her life choices and her role in her husband's success, while Joe becomes increasingly arrogant and self-involved. Along the way, they meet Nathaniel Bone (Christian Slater), an aspiring biographer who is determined to uncover the secrets behind Joe's career.

Throughout the film, the audience is taken on a journey into the past to discover how Joan and Joe first met and the events that led to their current situation. We see how Joan was once a talented writer herself, but ultimately chose to put her own ambitions aside to support her husband's work. We also see the dark secrets that lie at the heart of Joe's success and the toll they have taken on Joan.

Glenn Close delivers a powerful performance as the titular character, capturing both the quiet strength and the simmering resentment that lie beneath Joan's placid exterior. Jonathan Pryce is equally impressive as her aloof and self-centered husband, while Max Irons provides a strong supporting turn as their estranged son, David.

The Wife is a beautifully crafted film that explores complex themes such as gender roles, marriage, and literary fame. It is a poignant and timely reminder of the sacrifices made by countless women throughout history, and the ways in which their contributions are often overlooked or undervalued. It also shines a light on the dark underbelly of the literary world, where power and privilege often come at a steep cost.

Overall, The Wife is a must-see film for anyone who appreciates powerful performances and thought-provoking storytelling. It is a rare gem that manages to be both entertaining and meaningful, and will leave a deep impression on viewers long after the final credits roll.