This dark comedy stars Nicole Kidman and Matthew Broderick as Joanna Eberhart and Walter Kresby, a couple who move to Stepford after Joanna has a near breakdown. Eberhart was a high-powered TV executive who loses her job after a reality-show contestant attempts to shoot her during a high profile event. The man lost his wife after participating on the show, and he blames Joanna for ruining his life.
In an effort to save face, the company fires Eberhart, and she spirals into a funk. In a show of support, Walter gives up his own position with the network, and he moves the family to Stepford to salvage their sanity.
The small suburban town seems to be straight out of an old ‘50s magazine or from the set of Donna Reed. The women are all cut from the same material. It seems that the new arrivals, Joanna, Bobbie (played by Bette Midler), and the gay man Roger (played by Roger Bart), are the only ones who are not subservient and ultra-conservative.
The men on the other hand all seem to share a special secret and are led by Mike Wellington, played by Christopher Walken. When Walter discovers the key to everybody’s behavior, he faces the choice of joining their ranks or exposing the dark truth.
This movie was better than I expected, and I loved the twists that happen throughout. The finale is extremely satisfying, and I was even caught off-guard at what happens. I certainly recommend seeing this film at least once, and given the cost of renting, you should consider owning it.
Extras on the DVD include several featurettes, deleted scenes, a gag reel, and movie trailers.
GRADE: B (movie) B (DVD)
