The Anniversary Party

Colour, 35mm
USA, 2001, 115 min
Section: Forum of Independents

Synopsis

Joe, a successful writer, and Sally, a Hollywood actress, have a party to celebrate several important junctures in their marriage: their sixth anniversary, their decision to start a family and their reconciliation after a year-long separation. They have invited their closest friends, their past and current temptations, and (to avoid a lawsuit) their contentious neighbours. An unexpected gift sends the party spiralling out of control and unleashes an explosion of painful confessions. The celebration becomes a scorching dissection of a marriage on the brink.

About the director

Jennifer Jason Leigh (b. 1962, Hollywood) worked as an actress with directors such as Robert Altman, David Cronenberg, Barbet Schroeder and Joel Coen. She also worked as a scriptwriter and producer. Alan Cumming (1965, Pertshire, Scotland) worked as an actor. He also directed, wrote and produced the films Butter (short, 1994) and Burn Your Phone (TV, 1996).