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Anniversary features an outstanding cast led by Diane Lane and Kyle Chandler. This thriller, now available digitally, delves into the impact of ideological differences and a political movement on a family. The parallels to The Handmaid’s Tale are evident, suggesting it could be the origin story of Serena and Fred Waterford.
The Taylor family convenes to celebrate the 30th wedding anniversary of Ellen (Lane) and Paul (Chandler). Tensions arise when Ellen’s son, Josh (Dylan O’Brien), introduces his new girlfriend, portrayed by Bridgerton’s Phoebe Dynevor.
Directed by Jan Komasa and written by Lori Rosene-Gambino, the film sets the stage for a conflict that unravels the Taylor family over five years.
Josh’s girlfriend, Elizabeth, is revealed to be Elle’s former student, whose radical ideas clashed with the university professor. Elizabeth boasts about her new book, “The Change,” which promotes the ideologies Elle once criticized.
The new relationship seems intentional. Does Elizabeth have ulterior motives for dating her former professor’s son?
Years later, “The Change” has gained national traction, and the Taylor family resists the new movement. Their son, Josh, now a leader in the movement and Elizabeth’s husband, is willing to report his family to the authorities.
The script avoids specific details about Elizabeth’s radical ideologies, focusing instead on the family dynamics that lead to their downfall.
Elizabeth’s journey is reminiscent of Serena Waterford’s in The Handmaid’s Tale, as both characters wrote books that triggered significant events.
Lane and Chandler deliver poignant performances, portraying their characters’ transformation from confident role models to broken individuals by the story’s end.
Phoebe Dynevor stands out as Elizabeth, whose intentions and actions remain ambiguous. Her sly demeanor and crocodile tears suggest she chose Elle’s son for a reason, and the ending provides clarity.
The film concludes with another forced wedding anniversary celebration for Elle and Paul, orchestrated by Josh. The family is shattered, with one child on the run and two on the brink of a mental breakdown. The poetic ending is tragic and serves as a reality check.
Madeline Brewer, known for The Handmaid’s Tale, is a formidable presence in Anniversary, earning her a spot on the Most Wanted dissenter list. Her strong performance is noteworthy.
Zoey Deutch and McKenna Grace also deliver commendable performances as the siblings.
Anniversary resonates with the times, opting for realism over feel-good escapism. It unfolds like a
