Far from Heaven ★★★½ 2002 (PG-13) Perfect '50s homemaker, mother, and wife Cathy (Moore) faces her husband Frank's (Quaid) emerging homosexual desires, which culminate in her witnessing him in an intimate kiss with another man at the office. When Cathy seeks comfort from her black gardener (Haysbert), scandal and hatred spread and wrenching truths are found. Melodramatic (in the Douglas Sirk tradition) tale of social/racial taboos and a woman's sacrifice is intriguing. Moore's performance is Oscar caliber (she got a nomination), Quaid's fearless, and Lachman's retro-chic visuals also exhibit stunning craftsmanship, while Bernstien's lush score sets the proper mood. 107m/C VHS, DVD. US Julianne Moore, Dennis Quaid, Dennis Haysbert, Patricia Clarkson, James Rebhorn, Celia Weston, Viola Davis;
Director:
Todd Haynes;
Writer:
Todd Haynes;
Writer:
Edward Lachman;
Cameo:
Elmer Bernstein. Ind. Spirit '03: Actress (Moore), Cinematog., Director (Haynes), Film, Support. Actor (Quaid); L.A. Film Critics '02: Actress (Moore), Cinematog., Score; Natl. Bd. of Review '02: Actress (Moore); N.Y. Film Critics '02: Cinematog., Director (Haynes), Film, Support. Actor (Quaid), Support. Actress (Clarkson); Natl. Soc. Film Critics '02: Cinematog., Support. Actress (Clarkson).
