“The Wife” uses the story of a writer and his wife to indict modern society.

Behind the scenes is an accusation against the history of “wife”

There is another reason why her expression of anger is so shocking. This can be inferred from the fact that the original title of this film is "The Wife." The word "kingmaker" appears in this film, but the role of a "wife" is one in which she is forced to always support her husband and be a devoted supporter from behind the scenes. Until now, this has been seen as the role of a "wise woman."

Of course, there are women who are happy to be "housewives," and such a life should be respected as one way of life, but not all wives need to be kingmakers. Such a role has been forced upon many women throughout history, and it continues to this day as a system of exploitation that is like a curse and, in a sense, a form of "slavery." While depicting the story of a writer's wife being stripped of her honor, this work also indicts the history that gave birth to the role of "wife," and the current society that maintains such values. Joan's anger here is no longer just her own.

However, it is hard to say that Joseph, who behaves insensitively, is a cold-hearted villain. This is because his love for Joan is also apparent in many of the depictions. However, it is also true that this is a story that affirms and rides on the system of exploitation. It is because of this structure that his expressions of affection appear arrogant. This film reflects such very real relationships and social structures, and the emotions that arise here, which are likely common to many wives around the world, are concentrated in Glenn Close's performance.

“The Wife” (c)META FILM LONDON LIMITED 2017

In the film, there is a scene where Joan lovingly places her hand over a blank page. A blank sheet of paper is a symbol of future possibilities and free will, and her actions convey a longing for freedom to do what she likes, something she had long given up since her days as a hopeful, talented university student. This also shows her wish that not only she, but all "wives" will one day be liberated from unreasonable obligations and be able to live without oppression.

Text: Kei Onodera

A film critic who wanders around and writes for web media and magazines, aiming to become a movie hermit. We will convey the "deep" content of the movie in an easy-to-understand manner from various angles.

Twitter: @kmovie

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"The Wife"

Released nationwide from Saturday, January 26, 2019 at Shinjuku Piccadilly and other theaters

(c)META FILM LONDON LIMITED 2017

Official website: http://ten-tsuma.jp

*Information at the time of article publication in January 2019.