Review of Far from Heaven (2002) by Daniel A — 13 Dec 2010

Amidst the brilliantly raucous melodrama, Julianne Moore shines in a stunning performance that sets her apart as truly one in a million.

Not content with wrestling just one tough issue, Far From Heaven takes on two. Moore plays Cathy Whitaker, the quintessential 1950s housewife who falls in love with her African-American gardener and discovers her husband is gay. Resultantly the film has a tendency to bask in its own melodrama, but in a rare exception this is no bad thing.

The exaggerated score, eye catching costumes, and a handful of fine performances blend perfectly to form a compelling and beautifully shot film. Todd Haynes's screenplay demonstrates an abundance of intelligent and poignant dialogue via the telling of this moving tale about prejudice and the pressures placed on those who side with minorities. Equally Haynes triumphs as a director, placing the dark themes and destruction of a family before a vibrant backdrop that he captures perfectly. His framing of Moore and her costars within a complex colour palette that mirrors the feeling of each scene is remarkable. Resultantly I found the look of this film and particularly its artful use of colour reminiscent of that in vintage French musical The Umbrellas of Cherbourg; a film often noted for its memorable colour scheme.

However don't think for a minute that this is a case of style over substance; the content on offer is first rate. The handling of Far From Heaven's themes is rightfully unapologetic, yet never patronising enough to be forceful in presenting its views. As such the viewer is given plenty of room to interpret the plot as they see fit, while the broadness of social issues touched upon (racism, homosexuality, the role of women) will allow a range of people to relate.

Aside from all of this, however, the undisputed highlight of the film is found in Moore's heart-stopping performance. Yes, she really is that good. The tortured housewife is a role that's been seen hundreds of times before, yet somehow Moore manages to erase all that's come before her and create something seemingly unique with her character. Her initial optimism becomes gradually more faint as Cathy's life is hit by one curveball after another. As such Moore takes Cathy on an emotional journey that demonstrates incredible depth as an actress and great versatility, seen most vividly in the subtleties of her performance.

Thus Moore shines brighter than she ever has in this emotionally moving homage to 1950's melodrama that tackles tough issues and demands to be seen.