NOCTURNAL ANIMALS
In 2009, fashion designer and clothier Tom Ford made the transition to filmmaker with A Single Man starring Colin Firth. Seven years later he returns with Nocturnal Animals. Based on Austin Wright’s novel “Tony and Susan,” Ford takes liberty with the source material by refocusing the story, particularly with the character Susan Morrow (Amy Adams), a wealthy art gallery owner who receives a manuscript from her ex-husband. The novel is a thriller involving a family traveling from East to West Texas and their encounter with a trio of backroads ne’er-do-wells.
Nocturnal Animals’ story within a story narrative gives the viewer much to mull over in terms of themes and how to interpret the story. The symbolism of Susan and her ex, Tony (Jake Gyllenhaal – playing dual roles – he’s also the thriller’s protagonist, Edward) and their fractured relationship is apparent, but the ending will leave you contemplating Tony’s actions.
Among the extras is a three-part featurette on the making of the film, exploring the story, the look, and Tom Ford’s direction.
