To Die For (1995)

AKA: –
Directed by: Gus Van Sant
Starring: Nicole Kidman (Suzanne), Joaquin Phoenix (James), Matt Dillon (Larry), Alison Folland (Lydia), Casey Affleck (Russell), Illeana Douglas (Janice)
Country: USA; Effed Up American Cinema
Language: English (Optional Eng Subs)
Runtime: 01:15:01
Genres: Based on a True Story, Teenagers, Old-Young Relationships

Plot – Spoilers:
Inspired by the true case of Pamela Smart.

Suzanne has craved one thing ever since she was little – to be on TV. Everything she does, including her relationships, are merely a means to this end. Men are mostly smitten by her and women intimidated, and so, no one ever really gives her a reality check. Meanwhile her ambition snowballs to the point where it’s ready to consume her husband when he threatens to stand in its path.

Despite the melodramatic tone in what is essentially a satirical piece, Gus Van Sant elicits knockout performances from his Hollywood stars (and Alison Folland as Lydia) and as a bonus, includes a memorable scene of James (Joaquin Phoenix) dancing.