Synopsis
Savage Grace is the first film of Tom KALIN in 15 years since he entered into the New Queer Cinema with Swoon, telling the tragedy of Baekeland family, true events of the 20th century US. The invention of Bakelite, equivalent to plastic of today bless Baekeland family with high society benefits; however, the difference and subtle conflicts among beautiful and well-mannered Barbara, her husband, and their only son Tony drive them into unhealthy relationship.
While apparently mesmerized with homicidal narratives, KALIN questions the audience whether the killing was absolutely unjustifiable. In his films, the act of murder is often released with ultimate aesthetics including literary sensibility and intellectual grace, subsequently subject to bipolar ratings from the critics. Julianne MOORE's excellence in characterizing Barbara Baekeland is literally outstanding. (Jin PARK)