Review of Submission (2018) by Chris G — 27 May 2018

Novelist turned professor Ted Swenson (Stanley Tucci) is already chafing against campus politics and a bad case of middle age ennui when he takes an interest in creative writing student Angela Argo (Addison Timlin). Seemingly as troubled as she is talented, Angela disarms Swenson with a blend of ego-stroking flattery and provocative allure. Is there more to Angela than meets the eye? WIll Swenson's mentorship cross the line of appropriate behavior? If you've seen the trailer or read Blue Angel (the Francine Prose novel on which Submission is based) you probably have a pretty good idea. Regardless, Submission is a journey well worth taking, as its pleasures lie primarily in its razor sharp dialogue and pitch perfect casting.

While dramatic fireworks do ensue, this faithful adaptation retains much of Prose's satirical humor. Its ultimate message is open to interpretation and debate, but there's no arguing the quality of its acting. Tucci is nothing less than riveting in a role tailor made for his devilish deadpan wit. Timlin (the brilliantly understated star of future cult classics Little Sister and Like Me) more than holds her own opposite Tucci, completely nailing the ambiguity and myriad layers of Angela Argo. In fact, it's the women in Swenson's life who really steal the second half of the film, with Kyra Sedgwick making a typically strong impression as the professor's beleaguered wife.

One can quibble with Submission's third act, which feels a tad rushed in comparison to the book's impeccable pacing. The performances carry the day, however, and are the best of many reasons to see this sly, literate, button-pusher for adults.