Review: A Good Marriage (2014)

Stephen King's storytelling has always had a knack for blending the ordinary with the sinister, and A Good Marriage (2014) is no exception. Adapted from his novella in the collection Full Dark, No Stars, this thriller digs into into the unsettling realization that the person you think you know best might be hiding the darkest secrets. With Joan Allen and Anthony LaPaglia leading the cast, this movie takes us on a tense journey into the heart of a seemingly perfect marriage that is on the brink of unraveling.

Plot Summary

The story follows Darcy Anderson, a woman who has been married to her husband, Bob, for over 25 years. Their life seems idyllic until a chance discovery in the garage leads Darcy to suspect that Bob might be leading a double life. The film explores her internal struggle and the decisions she must face as she uncovers the truth about Bob's hidden identity. Without giving too much away, the plot hinges on Darcy's moral quandary and the lengths she'll go to protect her family while confronting the horror of her reality.

Performances

Joan Allen takes on the role of Darcy with a nuanced performance that captures the complexity of a woman grappling with betrayal and fear. Allen's ability to convey a range of emotions, from loving wife to a woman on the edge, keeps the audience engaged throughout the film. Her portrayal is both sympathetic and strong, making you root for her as she navigates this personal nightmare.

Anthony LaPaglia, as Bob, delivers a chillingly understated performance. His portrayal of a seemingly ordinary man with a hidden side is unsettlingly effective. LaPaglia manages to maintain a sense of normalcy that is gradually peeled back to reveal the monster beneath. This duality is key to the film's tension and he carries it off with precision.

Supporting performances by Stephen Lang and Kristen Connolly add additional depth to the narrative. Lang, in particular, brings a gravitas to his role that adds to the film's intensity.

Direction and Craft

Peter Askin directs with a steady hand, maintaining a tight focus on the characters and their evolving relationship. The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing the tension to build gradually without resorting to cheap thrills. Askin opts for a more psychological approach, which suits the source material's introspective nature.

The cinematography captures the claustrophobic feel of Darcy's world as it closes in around her. The use of ordinary settings, like the family home and garage, contrasts sharply with the extraordinary situation Darcy finds herself in. This juxtaposition enhances the film's unsettling atmosphere.

The script, penned by Stephen King himself, stays true to the novella's themes while expanding on them for the screen. King's knack for dialogue and character development shines through, providing the actors with rich material to work with.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, A Good Marriage is a solid pick for its engaging storyline and strong performances. The Blu-ray format is the best way to experience the film's crisp visuals and sound, enhancing the viewing experience. While it is considered common in terms of availability, its appeal lies in its connection to Stephen King's body of work, making it a worthwhile addition for fans of his adaptations.

With its blend of psychological tension and domestic drama, A Good Marriage offers a gripping narrative that will appeal to those who appreciate thrillers with a more introspective edge. While it may not be the rarest item to hunt down, its quality and connection to King ensure it holds a place in any serious collection.

Star Rating

Overall, I'd rate A Good Marriage a 3.5 out of 5 stars. It effectively brings Stephen King's novella to life with strong performances and a well-crafted script. While it may not reach the heights of other King adaptations, it remains a strong watch that keeps you invested from start to finish. For collectors, it's a neat addition that complements a King-themed collection well.