The notorious story of Lizzie Borden, who was the main suspect in the 1892 murders of her father and stepmother, is having a bit of a cultural moment. Christina Ricci found critical success with her turn as the possible murderess in Lizzie Borden Took An Ax and The Lizzie Borden Chronicles. And, now, Chloë Sevigny and Kristen Stewart are starring in a film called Lizzie that frames the murders as retribution against a sexual, physical, and emotional abuser.
The trailer for Lizzie just landed and it’s taut with tension as we see Sevigny’s Lizzie begin a romantic relationship with new maid Bridget, played by Stewart, who seems to immediately fall prey to Andrew Borden’s unwanted advances.
Lizzie also stars Fiona Shaw as Lizzie’s stepmother, Jamey Sheridan as Lizzie’s father, and Kim Dickens as Lizzie’s sister, alongside Denis O’Hare, Jeff Perry, and Jay Huguley.
Here’s the full, official synopsis:
Academy Award® nominee Chloë Sevigny (Boys Don’t Cry, “Big Love”) stars as Lizzie Borden, the notorious woman at the heart of one of the most enduring mysteries in American history. After a lifetime of loneliness, Lizzie finds a kindred spirit in housemaid Bridget Sullivan (Kristen Stewart) and their secret intimacy sparks an unthinkable act. Director Craig William Macneill (The Boy (2015), “Channel Zero: Candle Cove”) explores the days leading up to the savage crimes in a dark tale of repression, exploitation and thwarted dreams.
Lizzie will hit cinemas on November 16th.