‘Single White Female’ Limited Edition Blu-ray Review (Indicator)
Stars: Bridget Fonda, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Steven Weber, Peter Friedman, Stephen Tobolowsky, Frances Bay | Written by John Lutz, Don Roos | Directed by Barbet Schroeder
Single White Female, directed by Barbet Schroeder and starring Bridget Fonda and Jennifer Jason Leigh, is a psychological thriller that not only captivated audiences with its tense narrative and compelling performances but also marked a significant point in the female-villain-led thrillers of the 1990s, taking what was originally a more direct-to-market “erotic thriller” (from filmmakers like Jag Mundhra) and making it mainstream, leading to a proliferation of similar films through the decade from filmmakers looking to cash-in… and it made a superstar out of actress Bridget Fonda.
The film centres on Allie Jones (Bridget Fonda), a software designer who, after discovering her fiancé’s infidelity, seeks a new roommate. She finds one in Hedra “Hedy” Carlson (Jennifer Jason Leigh), whose initially shy and supportive demeanour slowly unravels into obsessive and dangerous behaviour. Leigh’s portrayal of Hedy is a masterclass in psychological complexity, capturing the character’s vulnerability and underlying menace with chilling precision.
One of Single White Female‘s standout aspects is its exploration of identity and the destructive nature of obsession. As Hedy begins to emulate Allie, even going as far as copying her hairstyle and wardrobe, the film delves into the terrifying potential of losing oneself in another’s identity. This theme is underscored by Schroeder’s direction, which expertly uses claustrophobic spaces and reflective surfaces to heighten the sense of encroaching madness.
Bridget Fonda delivers a strong performance as Allie, balancing her character’s independence and growing fear with a grounded realism. The dynamic between Fonda and Leigh is electric, driving the film’s suspense and keeping viewers on edge as the story progresses towards its harrowing climax.
Single White Female is notable for its role in revitalizing the female-driven thriller genre. It followed the success of Fatal Attraction five years earlier, another film that featured a female antagonist, and continued the streak of female-led thrillers such as The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992) and Basic Instinct (1992). These films all collectively shifted the landscape of “erotic thrillers” in the 90s, bringing complex female villains to the forefront and challenging traditional gender roles in cinematic storytelling.
In terms of production, the film’s moody cinematography and unsettling score contribute to its overall tension and atmosphere. The New York City setting, with its juxtaposition of intimate apartments and the anonymity of urban life, provides a fitting backdrop for the unfolding drama.
However, the film is not without its flaws. Some critics have pointed out that its plot relies on familiar tropes and can be predictable at times. Additionally, certain character motivations might appear exaggerated for the sake of narrative tension. Despite these points, Single White Female remains a compelling entry in the thriller genre, particularly for its intense character study and the powerful performances of its leads.
In conclusion, Single White Female is a gripping psychological thriller. With standout performances from Bridget Fonda and Jennifer Jason Leigh, the film offers a disturbing yet fascinating exploration of identity, obsession, and the darker aspects of human nature. It remains a significant film in the thriller genre, remembered for its impact and its contribution to the portrayal of complex female characters in cinema.
Special Features:
- Audio commentary with director Barbet Schroeder, editor Lee Percy, and associate producer Susan Hoffman (2018)
- New York Interview: Barbet Schroeder (2018): the director discusses the production and release of Single White Female
- Upstairs with Graham Knox (2018): actor Peter Friedman recalls his casting and relates some anecdotes from the set
- The Fiancé Sam Rawson (2018): in-depth interview with actor Steven Weber
- SWF Seeks Writer (2018): screenwriter Don Ross looks back on his adaptation of John Lutz’s novel and working with Schroder
- She’ll Follow You Anywhere (2024): the critic, broadcaster, and author of Unlikeable Female Characters Anna Bogutskaya dissects and contextualises the film within the context of the erotic thriller
- Original theatrical trailer
- Image gallery: promotional and publicity material
- New and improved English translation subtitles
- Limited edition exclusive book with a new essay by Georgia Humphreys, archival essays, a contemporary article on the making of the film
**** 4/5
Single White Female is out now on limited edition Blu-ray from Indicator.
