Discription
A Bigger Splash (2015)
Summary:
A Bigger Splash is a sensual and sun-drenched psychological drama set on the idyllic Italian island of Pantelleria. The film follows a famous rock star, Marianne Lane, who is recovering from a recent throat surgery and is on vacation with her filmmaker boyfriend, Paul. Their quiet retreat is disrupted by the unexpected arrival of Harry Hawkes, Marianne's exuberant and loud record producer and former lover, and his mysterious and seductive daughter, Penelope. The film is a simmering tale of jealousy, desire, and sexual tension that eventually erupts into a violent and tragic confrontation.
Detailed Plot (Movie Story):
The film opens with Marianne Lane (Tilda Swinton), a legendary rock star, who has lost her voice due to a recent surgery. She is a woman of immense power and presence, but she is now mute, communicating through gestures and whispers. She is on a quiet and isolated vacation with her boyfriend, Paul De Smedt (Matthias Schoenaerts), a loving and sensitive filmmaker. Their days are spent in a state of tranquil isolation, with them swimming, relaxing, and enjoying each other's company.
Their peaceful retreat is shattered by the arrival of Harry Hawkes (Ralph Fiennes), Marianne's boisterous and larger-than-life ex-lover and record producer. He is a man of boundless energy and charisma, and he brings with him his mysterious and alluring daughter, Penelope (Dakota Johnson).
Harry, a master manipulator, immediately begins to stir up trouble. He recounts his wild past with Marianne and tries to create a rift between her and Paul. He is also trying to convince Marianne to get back into the music industry. The arrival of Penelope adds another layer of complexity to the relationships. She is a quiet but observant young woman who has a mysterious past and a quiet intensity that draws people in.
The film then becomes a tense and sensual love square. The serene and beautiful landscapes of Pantelleria are a sharp contrast to the emotional turmoil and sexual tension of the four characters. Paul, who is initially a calm and patient man, is slowly consumed by jealousy and suspicion. Marianne, who is struggling with her identity as a silent person, is a magnet for the conflicting energies of the three.
The climax of the film is a violent and tragic confrontation that erupts from a single, seemingly harmless act. The film concludes with a chilling and ambiguous ending, where the characters' lives are forever changed by their actions. The film is a powerful study of human nature, a slow-burn thriller that explores the darker side of human emotions.
Cast:
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Tilda Swinton as Marianne Lane
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Matthias Schoenaerts as Paul De Smedt
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Ralph Fiennes as Harry Hawkes
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Dakota Johnson as Penelope Lanier
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Aurore Clément as Mireille
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Corrado Guzzanti as Inspector
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Elena Carminati as Angela
Crew:
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Director: Luca Guadagnino
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Writers: David Kajganich (screenplay), Alain Page (story from the 1969 film La Piscine)
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Producers: Luca Guadagnino, Tilda Swinton, Carlo Cresto-Dina
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Music: The film uses a variety of classic rock and pop music.
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Cinematography: Yorick Le Saux
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Editor: Walter Fasano
Release Date:
A Bigger Splash was released on February 12, 2016, in Italy.
