The Wife

The Wife from 2017 is an enthralling, powerfully acted drama film with Glenn Close in the lead role. It’ll keep viewers hooked from beginning to end. Directed by Björn Runge and based on the novel of the same name by Meg Wolitzer, this movie unfolds as a psychological drama that underscores the themes of love, marriage, sacrifice, and the dynamics of relationships.

The plot revolves around a couple, Joan and Joe Castleman, superbly played by Glenn Close and Jonathan Pryce respectively. They represent a seemingly ideal American couple who have spent a considerable part of their lives together, just on the verge of celebrating Joe’s crowning achievement. Joe is a prolific, well-established writer set to receive the ultimate accolification - the Nobel Prize for Literature. His wife, Joan, has steadfastly supported his incredible career, trailing him in his upward journey towards literary fame. She is the unflinching spouse who has given up on her aspirations to support her husband’s passions, acting as the charming woman behind the man in the spotlight.

Adding a layer to their relationship dynamic, the story also incorporates their adult son, David, played by Max Irons, who is trying to make his own mark in the literary field. The familial tensions, the unsaid words, and the mounting friction are palpable, adding an interesting angle to an already mesmerizing plot.

Set in Stockholm, Sweden, the movie unfolds in the present and flashbacks, weaving an intricate tapestry of their lives together. The presentations from the past provide viewers with an understanding of Joe and Joan’s relationship, their initial meeting and Joan’s personal ambitions, and why they have changed and evolved over the years. The circular unfolding of events provides us insights into the couple’s past and the conflicts in their present, effectively making for earnest storytelling.

Glenn Close's portrayal of Joan is simply mesmerizing. The actress scores highly by bringing forth the subtle emotions and silent reactions of a woman who has kept her desires at bay. Close layers Joan's persona with subtle expressions of hidden discontent and quiet strength – making ideal use of silence and facial expressions that speak volumes. Jonathan Pryce, playing the egotistical yet charming Joe, certainly does justice to his character. His performance is vibrant, set in contrast to Close’s more contained and constrained role. Max Irons' role as the emotionally overwhelmed son seeking validation from his lauded father further deepens the plot.

The Wife delves deep into the social constructs of marriage and gender roles. It tackles the interplay of art and sacrifice, and how Joan’s character navigates these elements. The film questions if talent requires acknowledgment to be legitimized and explores how an individual’s self-worth is deeply tied to societal validation.

The dialogues are sharp, the cinematography superb, and the direction skillful. There's also effective use of symbolism throughout the film, which adds depth to the storytelling. Flashback sequences are expertly handled to create a coherent juxtaposition with the ongoing narrative. The sprawling and spectacular views of Stockholm provide a fitting backdrop to the simmering marital tension and the cold greys reflect the winter of their relationship.

In conclusion, The Wife is a beautifully crafted, slow-burning narrative that is every bit as nuanced as it is potent. Glenn Close provides an unforgettable performance in a role that's both nuanced and complex, further showcasing her wide-ranging talent. It’s a gripping film that compels us to face the uncomfortable secrets behind the veneer of a perfect relationship and reveals the personal sacrifices made for ambition. It’s definitely a film that you should not miss.