Released on Netflix on May 14, 2021, ‘The Woman in the Window’ is based on the 2018 bestselling novel by A.J. Finn, a pseudonym for Daniel Mallory. Despite its mixed reviews and a somewhat tumultuous journey to screens, the film presents a narrative worth exploring.
Reasons You Should Watch ‘The Woman in the Window’
The story follows Anna Fox, an agoraphobic woman living in New York, portrayed by Amy Adams. Her life takes a thrilling turn when she begins spying on her new neighbors and witnesses a disturbing act of violence. This plot premise sets the stage for a narrative that delves deep into the psyche of its protagonist.
What sets this film apart is its thoughtful treatment of agoraphobia. It’s not just a backdrop but a critical element woven into the story. It also adds depth and complexity to Anna’s character. On the other hand, the film’s way of exploring mental health issues is both respectful and insightful.
Wright’s ‘The Woman in the Window’ also stands out for its visual storytelling, such as the scenes representing Anna’s hallucinations and mental state. The cinematography and visual style offers us a glimpse into Anna’s perspective.
The film also nods to classic cinema, notably Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Rear Window,‘ and makes use of these references to develop its narrative and thematic depth.
Adams delivers a powerful performance as Anna. The supporting cast, including Gary Oldman, Julianne Moore, Anthony Mackie, and Jennifer Jason Leigh, also contribute to the film’s depth. One criticism may be towards Ethan, who might have been portrayed by a younger actor.
The Film’s Reception After Release
Upon its release, ‘The Woman in the Window’ received a mixed critical reception. While some critics and viewers found the film to be a compelling addition to the thriller genre, others were less favorable in their assessments.
Nonetheless, the film ranked among the top-performing titles on Netflix in 2021. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an average rating of 4.60/10, and on Metacritic, it has a score of 41 out of 100. It also has a 5.7 rating on IMDb.
Still, despite its polarizing reception, ‘The Woman in the Window’s storytelling, especially Adams’s performance, makes it a film worth watching. From another perspective, the film is more than just a straightforward thriller. It explores themes of voyeurism, reality, and the influence of cinema itself — making it a worthwhile watch.
