A Woman Under The Influence (1974)

Film: A Woman Under The Influence

Director: John Cassavetes

Country: USA

Released: November 1974

Runtime: 155 minutes

Genre: Indie Film

Studio: Faces International Films

Influenced: John Sayles, Abbas Kiarostami, Jim Jarmusch, Lynne Ramsay, Sean Baker

Independently produced by Cassavetes and Sam Shaw, A Woman Under the Influence is one of the most influential independent films of the 20th century, its story revolving around the emotionally turbulent lives of a married couple. Cassavetes wrote A Woman Under the Influence intending for his wife, Gena Rowlands, to play the lead role. She expressed interest in the role, but thought it would be too emotionally intense for the stage, so he adapted it into a screenplay. Cassavetes initially had trouble funding the film, but after actor Peter Falk agreed to participate, the director was able to secure the remaining funds needed to complete the project.

The film revolves around the life of Mabel Longhetti (Gena Rowlands), a housewife who suffers from mental illness, and her husband Nick (Peter Falk), a construction worker. They share three children and the story intricately explores their home life. Rather than using a traditional, linear narrative, Cassavetes offers a raw and intimate exploration of character and emotion. His use of long, handheld shots invites viewers to immerse themselves in the characters' experience. The film's stark realism is further enhanced by naturalistic dialogue and exceptional performances from the main cast. It was also groundbreaking in its in-depth portrayal of mental illness, depicting it with a complexity and empathy not commonly seen in films of that era.

While Mabel is deeply loving and earnest, she behaves eccentrically and unpredictably, which worries Nick. One of the key moments in the film is when Nick decides to commit Mabel to a psychiatric institution for six months. In a deeply affecting scene, Mabel is forcibly taken away from her home and children, a moment that showcases Rowlands' extraordinary performance. When Mabel returns home, her family attempts to reintegrate her into their routine life, but they struggle as Mabel's behaviour remains unpredictable. One of the film's most iconic moments comes when Nick throws an impromptu party to celebrate Mabel's return, despite her clear discomfort and the criticism of his friends and family. The party spirals out of control, becoming a mirror of Mabel's inner chaos.

A Woman Under the Influence had a profound impact on cinema, particularly independent film. It was nominated for two Academy Awards – Gena Rowlands for Best Actress and John Cassavetes for Best Director – and elevated Cassavetes' status in the indie pantheon and cemented his reputation for drawing out deep, raw performances from his actors. Rowlands' portrayal of Mabel remains one of the most celebrated performances in cinema, showcasing the depth of her range and talent. In terms of thematic legacy, the film shed light on the social pressures and expectations placed on women and the stigma associated with mental health issues. This courageous exploration of these topics helped pave the way for more nuanced and compassionate portrayals in later films.