Directed by Barbet Schroeder, Single White Female, released in theaters on August 14, 1992, is a chilling psychological thriller that delves into the terrifying depths of identity and obsession.
The film follows Allie Jones (Bridget Fonda), a New York City software designer, who finds herself in need of a new roommate after a difficult breakup with her fiancé, Sam Rawson (Steven Weber). She finds a seemingly perfect match in the shy and unassuming Hedra “Hedy” Carlson (Jennifer Jason Leigh), who responds to her newspaper ad.
At first, the two women bond quickly and deeply, developing a close friendship. However, as the film progresses, Hedy’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic and unsettling. What began as a simple admiration for Allie turns into a full-blown fixation. Hedy starts to mimic Allie’s appearance, from her hairstyle and clothing to her mannerisms. Allie’s life and relationships begin to unravel as Hedy’s obsession spirals into a dangerous and violent attempt to completely take over her life.
Supporting characters like Allie’s quirky neighbor, Graham (Peter Friedman), add a touch of levity and a sense of growing unease as he observes Hedy’s strange behavior.
Stephen Tobolowsky stands out as Mitchell Myerson, a fashion house owner looking to buy Allie’s new program.
The film’s strength lies in the unsettling tension it builds, primarily through the two powerhouse performances at its core. Leigh is absolutely magnetic as Hedy, portraying a character who is both deeply pathetic and terrifyingly sinister. Her performance is the engine of the film’s psychological horror.
Fonda is equally compelling as Allie, embodying the slow-dawning horror and desperation of a woman losing control of her own life. The film expertly plays on the universal fears of vulnerability and trust, turning the seemingly innocuous act of finding a roommate into a nightmare scenario.
The film was followed by a sequel, Single White Female 2: The Psycho, starring Kristen Miller, Allison Lange and Brooke Burns in 2005 that was a direct to video release.
JenniferJason Leigh and Bridget Fonda in Single White Female (Photo/Columbia Pictures)
Reception for Single White Female
Single White Female grossed $10.2 million on its opening weekend, finishing second at the box office behind Unforgiven, which pulled in $11.4 million in its second weekend.
The film would gross $84.1 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Single White Female cemented itself as a defining film of the 1990s thriller boom.
Its legacy is its masterful execution of the “roommate from hell” trope, which has been emulated countless times in film and television. It’s remembered for its taut direction and for the incredible chemistry and rivalry between its two lead actresses.
The film’s exploration of female friendship, envy, and identity crises gives it a psychological depth that elevates it beyond a simple genre piece, making it a timeless and truly unnerving viewing experience.
