Lizzie (2018)

Lizzie Poster

Massachusetts, 1892. An unmarried woman of 32 and a social outcast, Lizzie lives a claustrophobic life under her father's cold and domineering control. When Bridget Sullivan, a young maid, comes to work for the family, Lizzie finds a sympathetic, kindred spirit, and a secret intimacy soon blossoms into a wicked plan.

Film Background
"Lizzie" is a biographical thriller film launched in 2018. Directed by Craig William Macneill and composed by Bryce Kass, the film is based upon the notorious Lizzie Borden, who was implicated and later on acquitted of the ruthless axe murders of her father and stepmother in 1892. The movie stars Chloë Sevigny ahead function of Lizzie, with Kristen Stewart playing the character of Bridget Sullivan, Lizzie's housemaid.

Plot Description
The film begins on the day of the infamous murders, producing a suspenseful environment that remains over the remainder of the narrative. It then flashes back to 6 months prior when Irish housemaid Bridget Sullivan arrives at the Borden family. Lizzie takes an interest in Bridget, and they share an intimate relationship, which forms a main aspect of the narrative. Another essential subplot consists of the stress in between Lizzie, her sis Emma, and their self-important dad, Andrew Borden, who is represented as a harsh and violent figure.

As the movie advances, Lizzie's relationship with her daddy ends up being increasingly dissatisfied, sustained by both Andrew's controlling nature and Lizzie's feeling of being allured within her own life. Andrew's decision to move his homes to Abby, Lizzie's stepmother, further intensifies the tension. Meanwhile, Bridget, who is the victim of Andrew's sexual abuse, bonds with Lizzie over shared distress, resulting in a deep and romantic connection.

Climax and Resolution
"Lizzie" builds up to the gruesome recreation of the notorious murders. After discovering their father has actually eliminated her pigeons, Lizzie reaches a snapping point. In a fit of rage, she takes an axe to Andrew and Abby. The murder scene is explicit, revealing Lizzie's unmanageable fury, which is strangely juxtaposed with the calm attitude she shows afterward. Bridget is depicted as complicit in the act, and the criminal offense scene is staged to look like a burglary.

The final act of the movie happens throughout Lizzie's trial. Sitting in a courtroom filled with males, Lizzie preserves her innocence, and Bridget-- who is equally distressed and terrified-- substantiates her variation of occasions. Lizzie's attorney raises questions about her peace of mind, meaning possible epilepsy or insanity, which could possibly acquit her. The movie ends ambiguously - Lizzie is acquitted due to reasonable doubt and societal shock that a woman could perpetrate such an act, while Bridget leaves for Montana, finally getting away the oppressive Borden household.

Film Assessment
"Lizzie" offers an unique analysis of the infamous case, reimagining Lizzie Borden as both a victim and an avenger. Instead of focusing solely on the crime, the film highlights the repressed sexuality and domestic abuse within the Borden home lending to the murderous act. The movie represents a layered character research study with powerful efficiencies from Sevigny and Stewart however may leave those looking for a traditional scary or mystery somewhat dissatisfied. Regardless of the gruesome subject matter, "Lizzie" is a movie about freedom from oppressive scenarios and the lengths to which one may opt for flexibility.

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