How is it possible that Glenn Close doesn’t have an Oscar yet? I ask myself that question basically every time I see her in a movie. After watching The Wife, that question popped up yet and again.

Based on the novel by Meg Wolitzer, The Wife, set in 1992, follows the story of writer Joe Castleman (Jonathan Pryce) and his wife Joan Castleman (Glenn Close) as he receives the Nobel Prize in Literature. As they celebrate with friends and family, he always thanks his wife, showing his gratitude for all the years of marriage and support. He does, however, say that he’s thankful she doesn’t write, otherwise he would have permanent writer’s block. And in moments like those, you can notice Joan is holding back, somewhat embarrassed and humiliated, as if not to give a proper answer. Not to mention their son (Max Irons), who is also starting to write and is seeking for his father’s approval, completely dismissing Joan’s opinions.

Through flashbacks, the audience learns that Joe was Joan’s teacher and that she used to write, but he didn’t think her writings were good enough. She also hears from other people that women never get published, which discourage her even more.

Glenn Close’s performance is simply exquisite. The audience can see her lowering her eyes while her husband praises her, with a wondering gaze, as if controlling herself no to say anything. She also shows us how hurt she is when her son dismisses her opinion, or when her husband is clearly attracted by a young photographer assigned to cover the Nobel Prize event. And then, of course, there is the climax scene, when she shows us all of her acting abilities, with her character confused, angry, sad, and in love at the same time.

Having said that, I just wish the film hadn’t been so predictable – I’m afraid the trailer already told the whole story, so I was not surprised by what I saw, despite not having read the book. So I would suggest watching it without seeing the trailer first, so that the viewing experience can be complete.

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Crítica: The Wife (2018) Review: The Good Wife (Season 7) Review: Tully (2018) Review: Christopher Robin (2018)

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