A Woman Under the Influence

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Wayne K @RT88290232 4d John Cassavetes employed a pared-back, naturalistic style in his movies, and it’s the perfect approach for A Woman Under the Influence. Gena Rowlands plays a person that’s undoubtedly quirky, oddball and awkward, but the film’s contention is that that kind of behaviour in women is deemed undesirable and, I guess you could say, unladylike. Seeing her pushed to limits of her sanity while really doing nothing wrong gives the story a real sense of tragedy. The film is about 20 minutes too long, with protracted arguments and rambling dialogue. Also I don’t know what was happening with the editing, but a number of scenes end very abruptly, and the ending almost feels too fairytale-ish, in complete contrast to the rest of it. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s a searing portrayal of mental illness and suffering, and if it’s the film Cassavetes is best remembered for, it’s more than earned that accolade. See more Annette K @Anne845 Jul 22 Strong performances but to what point? Movie is too long, and too talky. Not much plot resolution and some scenes are not believable. Perhaps Mabel should not have been released from the hospital. See more Mark W @RT34561273 Jul 22 Punishing, as others have said. You really feel like you're going crazy with all of them. You're supposed to just go along with whatever is happening, even though it doesn't make sense. These family and friend characters and their interactions are bonkers. Uncomfortably long, you will go crazy with them. See more Tami A. @chattyjollyvulture Jun 23 The acting in this is off the charts good. See more Leprechaun K @LeprechaunKing Mar 3 Cassavetes' masterpiece. One of the greatest performances of all time by Rowlands. Falk is also wonderful. The movie is painful to the point of exhaustion. A story about struggles in a chaotic marriage. Arguably Cassavetes' best work. See more RichardAB T @PoorDearRichard Feb 21 This is one of those films that leaves you thinking, "What the hell did I just watch?" Gina Rowlands delivers one of the finest performances of her career. Personally, I prefer Gloria, though she earned Best Actress nominations for both roles. The film feels deeply personal and intimate, as if you’ve stepped directly into their lives, helplessly watching her mental state slowly unravel. See more Read all reviews

A Woman Under the Influence

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