The Intricate Web of Psychological Control

Read Time:3 Minute, 36 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Sanctuary
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Genre: Drama, Thriller
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director(s): Zachary Wigon
Writer(s): Micah Bloomberg
Cast: Margaret Qualley, Christopher Abbott
Where To Watch: in select theaters now

RAVING REVIEW: It’s an absolute joy to see Margaret Qualley flexing her acting chops again; she was the standout star to me in MY SALINGER YEAR and has again dominated the screen with this intense portrayal of Rebecca in SANCTUARY, playing the opposite of a very timid Christopher Abbott (Hal.) I have to admit, after reading the film's synopsis, I was expecting something far more graphic and was pleasantly surprised with what I got. I’m not against graphic, but this film focused on the psychological aspects instead of just the visuals.

This drama examines the mental aspects of dominance and submission in sexual encounters yet does so in such a way that makes you think about what you see from a different frame of view. Qualley, an Emmy Award nominee, steals the show as Rebecca, a domineering force with a unique relationship with Christopher Abbott's character Hal, a wealthy heir to a booming hotel kingdom.

But don't be fooled; the calm waters give way to a storm of an elaborate web of seduction and control. Like a skilled puppeteer, Rebecca maneuvers Hal's vulnerabilities, asserting control in a maze of physical and psychological dynamics. The back-and-forth “chemistry,” if you want to call it that, is played on perfectly; this is a very intimate film, both in the story and in a visual sense; there’s no shying away from the subject.

The reason for the entire narrative is spoiler-worthy, and I don’t want to take that experience away from anyone. Just know that what you expect isn’t what you’ll get, making the entire film worth it. I don’t remember the last time my anxiety was this on edge while watching a movie; I would probably have to return to Olivia Cooke and Anya Taylor-Joy’s performances in 2017's THOROUGHBREDS.

SANCTUARY takes the concept of sexual domination and spins it on its head, presenting it as an idea far beyond simple physical pleasure. This film debunks the stereotype of authority as a mere endurance test. Instead, it shows it as a brain-teasing voyage that tests conventional narratives.

To add to the film's intrigue, most of the film takes place in a hotel room (well, a suite.) That adds to the intensity of give and take between Rebecca and Hal, and that anxiety-driven back and forth forms the core of this narrative. SANCTUARY's story reveals a fascinating interplay between Hal and Rebecca, a maestro creating intricate worlds for her wealthy patrons. Their “relationship,” shared past, and looming darkness all reach a boiling point in a gripping climax that is as problematic as it is captivating.

SANCTUARY is also an ode to the art of dialogue; while there are some intense physical scenes, much of the film is driven by words. The strength of these words and their power over our psyche forms the pieces that make this puzzle whole, showing that you don’t have to offer each piece to make the mind complete it.

This film demanded precise and intense character development and a captivating emotional journey to hold it all together; with basically only two people on screen, they had to be built up as characters you could connect to (for better or worse.) Along with fantastic acting and phenomenal direction by Zachary Wigon, the brilliantly penned screenplay by Micah Bloomberg holds the audience in its grasp, unfolding the complex layers of the characters. It tells an innovative story, leaving viewers with thoughts to think about long after the screen fades to black.

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[photo courtesy of NEON RATED]