Lizzie (2018)

"Lizzie" (2018): A Riveting Psychological Thriller Based on True Events

Released in 2018, the movie "Lizzie" is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the infamous story of Lizzie Borden, a woman accused of the brutal axe murders of her father and stepmother in Fall River, Massachusetts, in 1892. This cinematic portrayal is more than just a crime retelling; it explores the complex emotions, relationships, and societal constraints surrounding the titular character. "Lizzie" is a captivating film that blends suspense, drama, and historical intrigue into a compelling narrative.

Plot Summary

The movie follows Lizzie Borden (played by Kristen Stewart), who returns home from nursing her mother after a lingering illness. She moves back into the Borden family household, where tension with her stepmother, Abby Borden (played by Jamey Sheridan’s character, though uncredited in some sources), and her austere and authoritarian father, Andrew Borden (portrayed by Chloë Sevigny), is palpable.

Lizzie's life is marked by repression and simmering resentment, but the film doesn’t approach her as a typical suspect. Instead, it peels back layers to reveal her personal conflicts, desires, and a controversial relationship with Bridget Sullivan (Chloë Sevigny), the Borden family maid. Their complicated and intimate friendship challenges the conventions of the period, thereby providing insight into Lizzie’s mental state and motivations.

As the story unfolds, tensions escalate, culminating in the shocking murders that the film dramatically reconstructs—raising questions about class, gender roles, and justice.

Main Cast and Characters

• Kristen Stewart as Lizzie Borden: Kristen delivers a nuanced performance, balancing vulnerability and underlying turmoil, which brings depth to the enigmatic figure of Lizzie.
• Chloë Sevigny as Bridget Sullivan: Playing the Borden family's live-in maid, Sevigny portrays Bridget with complexity, capturing the nuances of her growing bond with Lizzie as well as her own struggles within the household.
• Jamey Sheridan as Andrew Borden: The stern and wealthy patriarch of the Borden family, although in some credits, the role is filled by other supporting actors.

Director and Writer

"Lizzie" was both written and directed by Craig William Macneill. Under his direction, the film takes a fresh approach to a well-known story, focusing not just on the sensational aspects but also on psychological and feminist perspectives. Macneill’s script and direction emphasize mood and atmosphere, giving the story a haunting quality while staying grounded in historical context.

Cinematography and Style

The film's visual style complements its suspenseful narrative. The period details, from costume design to set decoration, effectively immerse the audience in the late 19th century. The use of lighting and framing contributes to the eerie and tense ambiance that pervades the movie.

Critical Reception

Upon release, "Lizzie" received acclaim for its performances, particularly those of Kristen Stewart and Chloë Sevigny, as well as for its atmospheric storytelling. Critics praised the movie’s willingness to look beyond the surface of a famous crime and explore the interpersonal dynamics and social constraints that may have led to the tragedy.

About the Music

Unlike many other films, "Lizzie" does not focus heavily on a traditional soundtrack or musical numbers. Instead, the score supports the film’s tense and brooding atmosphere subtly, underscoring the psychological tension rather than distracting with overt musical themes.

Conclusion

"Lizzie" (2018) stands out as a dark, intriguing, and psychologically complex film that revisits one of America’s most infamous murder cases through a fresh lens. The powerful performances by Kristen Stewart and Chloë Sevigny, coupled with Craig William Macneill’s deliberate and haunting direction, make it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and true crime stories. The film skillfully balances historical fidelity with character study, leaving viewers to ponder the nature of truth, repression, and justice.

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