The Housewife

Friday, September 18: This screening will be presented with open captions.

Grounded in memorable performances from Oscar nominee Naomi Watts (TIFF ’01’s Mulholland Drive), Tye Sheridan (TIFF ’13’s Joe), Luke Evans (Dracula Untold), and The Sopranos alum Michael Imperioli (TIFF ’24’s Oh, Canada), this psychological historical drama depicts the complexities of seeking justice in the long shadow of Nazism. Based on a true story, and brilliantly scripted by Alyssa Hill, director Ben Shirinian’s feature debut conveys this troubling tale with intelligence, suspense, and unexpected twists.

The year is 1964. A very proper Hermine (Watts) and her hardworking husband Russel (Evans) enjoy a seemingly normal life in New York City — until the fateful day Hermine meets The New York Times journalist Joseph Lelyveld (Sheridan). Following a tip from a Holocaust survivor, Joseph is investigating the possibility that Russel might be a Nazi in hiding. As his inquiry deepens — and his exchanges with Hermine become increasingly intimate — Joseph discovers a series of revelations far stranger and more complicated than he could have imagined. 

As it shifts from tense thriller to courtroom drama, The Housewife gradually emerges as a complex study in complicity and accountability. History may pass but the question remains as to whether some crimes can be forgotten, forgiven, or washed away. With this feature debut, Shirinian not only raises timely questions, but does so with impressive craft and polished storytelling, positioning himself as a director to watch. 

ANITA LEE

Content advisory: themes of antisemitism, violence, self-harm, coarse language, mature themes