Hull Independent Cinema: LIZZIE

Hull Independent Cinema presents: LIZZIE
Craig William Macneill | 2018 | USA | Cert 15 | 103 mins

Synopsis
LIZZIE is a compelling psychodrama based on the infamous 1892 axe murder of the Borden family in Fall River, Massachusetts. The film explores Lizzie Borden’s life, focusing on the period leading up to the murders and their immediate aftermath – and reveals many layers of the strange, fragile woman who stood accused of the brutal crime. As an unmarried woman of 32, and a social outcast, Lizzie lives a claustrophobic life under her father’s cold and domineering control. When Bridget Sullivan, a young maid, comes to work for the family, Lizzie finds a sympathetic, kindred spirit, and a chance intimacy that blossoms into a wicked plan, and a dark, unsettling end. Directed by Craig William Macneill and produced by Sevigny alongside Liz Destro and Naomi Despres, Lizzie is an enthralling investigation of a dark slice of history that has fascinated the world ever since – with captivating performances leading an evocative presentation of strained family relationships, an oppressive society and a secret, burgeoning romance, delivering rich slow-burn tension and emphatic, transfixing release.

Featuring Chloë Sevigny, Kristen Stewart, Fiona Shaw, Denis O’Hare

Awards and Reviews
Sundance Film Festival, BFI London Film Festival, Cork Film Festival Official Selections

“The stylish and haunting LIZZIE paints a provocative portrait of a woman driven by passions and left with few options in a society that gave her little agency.” – The Wrap

“Fascinating and ferocious, LIZZIE takes a legend hardened by history and blows it up from the inside, forcing the viewer to pick up the pieces and recontextualize this figure in a whole new light.” – SlashFilm

Certificate
LIZZIE is rated 15. Visit the BBFC website for full details (may include plot spoilers).