Malice, written by Oscar winner Aaron Sorkin, is a masterclass in deception and misdirection, a twisting narrative that keeps audiences guessing until its final, shocking revelations. With a star-studded cast and a labyrinthine plot, the film delves into the dark side of human nature, where trust is a weapon and appearances are dangerously misleading.
The story introduces us to Andy Safian (Bill Pullman), a kind-hearted college dean, and his beautiful wife, Tracy Safian (Nicole Kidman), who seem to have an idyllic life in a picturesque New England town.
Their peaceful existence is shattered by the arrival of Dr. Jed Hill (Alec Baldwin), a brilliant but arrogant surgeon who moves into the top floor of their Victorian home. Jed’s self-assured demeanor and unconventional methods immediately create a ripple in their lives.
When Tracy experiences a medical emergency, Jed is the surgeon on call. A subsequent operation, performed by Jed, leads to a devastating outcome for Tracy, leaving her unable to have children. This tragedy sets off a chain of events, as Tracy decides to sue Jed for malpractice.
However, as the legal battle unfolds, layers of deceit begin to peel back, revealing a far more sinister plot at play than simple medical negligence.
The film expertly weaves a web of intrigue, hinting at various possibilities and keeping the audience off balance. As the truth slowly comes to light, the characters’ motivations and true identities are called into question.
Nicole Kidman in Malice (Photo/Castle Rock Entertainment)
The supporting cast adds to the film’s rich tapestry of suspicion and manipulation, including Peter Gallagher as Tracy’s lawyer Dennis Riley, Bebe Neuwirth as Detective Dana Harris, Josef Sommer as the hospital’s attorney Lester Adams, Tobin Bell as maintenance man Earl Leemus, Joshua Molina as a hospital resident, Anne Bancroft as Mrs. Kennsinger, and George C. Scott as Dr. Kessler.
Gwyneth Paltrow appears in an early role as Paula Bell.
Malice was directed by Harold Becker (Vision Quest, Sea of Love, City Hall).
Reception for Malice
Malice grossed $9.2 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office for Oct. 1-3, 1993.
The film would gross $61.6 million worldwide.
Legacy
Malice is remembered primarily for its reputation as a cleverly constructed thriller with a series of memorable plot twists. It’s often cited for its intricate narrative and the way it subverts audience expectations.
Baldwin’s performance as the enigmatic Dr. Hill is particularly acclaimed, showcasing his ability to embody complex, morally ambiguous characters.
While some critics found its twists overly convoluted, its ability to keep viewers engaged and surprised, along with its strong performances, has cemented its place as a notable entry in the psychological thriller genre of the 1990s. It remains a film that rewards attentive viewing, as every detail might be a clue to the ultimate deception.
