This curated collection delves into the complex and often painful theme of marital infidelity, focusing on the stories where the wife's betrayal takes centre stage. These films not only entertain but also provoke thought, offering insights into human emotions, the consequences of betrayal, and the intricate dynamics of relationships. Whether you're looking for drama, psychological depth, or a narrative twist, these films provide a rich tapestry of stories that explore the multifaceted nature of love and deceit.
The Graduate (1967)
Description: Although primarily about a young man's affair with an older woman, it also touches on the theme of infidelity within marriage from the wife's perspective.
Fact: The film features the iconic song "Mrs. Robinson" by Simon & Garfunkel.
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Fatal Attraction (1987)
Description: While not exclusively about a wife's infidelity, it explores the consequences of an extramarital affair from the perspective of the husband, highlighting the wife's reaction.
Fact: The film coined the term "bunny boiler" due to a particularly infamous scene.
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Unfaithful (2002)
Description: This film captures the essence of infidelity with a gripping narrative about a seemingly perfect marriage that unravels when the wife, played by Diane Lane, embarks on an affair.
Fact: Diane Lane received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her performance in this film.
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The Painted Veil (2006)
Description: Based on W. Somerset Maugham's novel, it follows a woman who has an affair, leading to a journey of self-discovery and redemption.
Fact: The film was shot on location in China, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.
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The Other Woman (2014)
Description: A comedic take on infidelity, this film follows three women who bond over their shared experience of being betrayed by the same man.
Fact: The film was a box office success, grossing over $196 million worldwide.
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The Lovers (2017)
Description: A unique take on infidelity where both partners in a marriage are having affairs, leading to unexpected outcomes when they reconnect.
Fact: Debra Winger, who plays one of the leads, returned to acting after a long hiatus for this film.
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Last Tango in Halifax (2012)
Description: This TV series, while not a film, features a subplot where one of the main characters, Celia, has an affair, exploring the complexities of love in later life.
Fact: The series was inspired by the real-life story of the writer's mother.
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The Ice Storm (1997)
Description: Set in the 1970s, this film examines the sexual revolution's impact on a family, with both parents engaging in affairs, but with a focus on the wife's infidelity.
Fact: The film was adapted from Rick Moody's novel of the same name.
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The Good Girl (2002)
Description: Jennifer Aniston stars as a small-town retail worker who begins an affair with a younger man, exploring themes of marital dissatisfaction and infidelity.
Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal's character was inspired by the character of Holden Caulfield from "The Catcher in the Rye."
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Scenes from a Marriage (1973)
Description: This Swedish film, later adapted into a TV series, delves deeply into the emotional and psychological aspects of a marriage, including infidelity.
Fact: It was remade as an HBO miniseries in 2021 starring Jessica Chastain and Oscar Isaac.
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