Revolutionary Road

When Helen Givings (Kathy Bates) meets Frank and April Wheeler (Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet), she instantly recognises that they are the perfect couple for her newly available property on Revolutionary Road; a 1950s suburban dream house within commuting distance of Manhattan, complete with picture window. The Wheelers initially embrace the trappings of their post-war 'American dream', but as Frank approaches his thirtieth birthday it becomes clear that neither party are invested in their respective roles as white-collar breadwinner and suburban housewife. April hits on a plan to recapture their bohemian youth and suggests that the family move to Paris where she will support Frank whilst he rediscovers himself. However, as their departure looms nearer, they become trapped by the life they are attempting to flee…

Adapted from the novel of the same name, Revolutionary Road is a stunning film, both in its nuanced performances from the supporting cast, including Michael Shannon as the Givings’ mentally ill yet fiercely intellectual son John, but also in its production design and costuming, rooting the narrative in a pitch-perfect 1950s America without kitsch or nostalgia. Kate Winslet’s performance as April Wheeler is nothing short of magnificent; the volatility of her character is perpetually bubbling under the surface, and Winslet transforms her former ‘English rose’ persona into a hardened and almost terrifying individual. Leonardo DiCaprio’s performance is equally strong and their scenes together crackle with tension and chemistry. Whilst the film is eager to dissect the 'American dream' of times past, the characters’ struggle against both society and each other speaks directly to a contemporary audience; it’s easy to sympathise with characters coming to terms with the dissolution of their dreams, imagining the road not travelled and having to give way to the realities and responsibilities of everyday life.

Laura Potter