A Kiss Before Dying

A Kiss Before Dying is a 1991 psychological thriller film directed by James Dearden, adapted from Ira Levin's novel of the same name, which had been previously adapted into a 1956 film. Set against a backdrop of ambition, deception, and murder, this iteration of the story is led by a formidable cast featuring Matt Dillon, Sean Young, and James Bonfanti, delivering a narrative filled with suspense, romance, and dark twists.

The movie begins by introducing us to Jonathan Corliss (played by Matt Dillon), a young man who appears to be driven and hardworking. He comes from a modest background and is ambitious to a fault, inherently believing that he deserves a life far beyond the means provided by his upbringing. Jonathan attends a university, where he secretly dates Dorothy Carlsson (played by Sean Young in a dual role), a wealthy student whose father owns a large corporation. The relationship between Jonathan and Dorothy is fervent and fraught with a tension that is not entirely romantic.

Dorothy's family wealth and position stand as the prize Jonathan believes will cement his future. However, the romance takes a sinister turn when Dorothy becomes pregnant, potentially jeopardizing Jonathan's meticulously laid plans for a prosperous future. His facade of being a loving and attentive boyfriend begins to crack as he realizes that Dorothy's condition might lead to her father cutting her off financially, and by extension, him.

As Jonathan's true character starts to reveal itself, the audience is taken on a disturbing journey through his calculating mind. Dillon's portrayal of the character oscillates between charming and chilling, a testament to his performance's versatility and the depths of Corliss’ depravity. The suspense intensifies when Jonathan's schemes take a more dangerous and life-altering path.

On the flip side of this twisted romance is Ellen Carlsson, Dorothy's twin sister, also portrayed by Sean Young. After a tragic event rocks the Carlsson family, she begins to search for answers. Ellen is intuitive and determined, qualities that pose a threat to Jonathan's plans. The narrative builds on the tension between Jonathan's continued pursuit of wealth and power, and Ellen's quest for the truth, as she gradually begins to suspect foul play.

Ellen's growing suspicions and Jonathan's relentless ambition set the stage for a cat-and-mouse dynamic that drives the movie towards its climax. The film delves into themes of identity, with the switching roles portrayed by Sean Young providing a rich exploration of character and perception. Young delivers a compelling performance that contrasts the innocence and vulnerability of Dorothy with the sharp intellect and resilience of Ellen.

A Kiss Before Dying does not merely focus on the central characters alone; it also explores the impact of Jonathan's actions on the people around him. James Bonfanti plays a supporting role, and through various interactions with both main characters, the audience gains further insight into how far Jonathan will go to protect his secrets and achieve his objectives.

The movie also makes notable use of its locations and settings, shifting scenes between the opulence of the Carlsson family's world and the more modest environment from which Jonathan emerged. The direction by James Dearden ensures that viewers are consistently engaged through a visual style that reflects the contrasts in the narrative, with the bright allure of wealth and success often juxtaposed with the darker reality lurking beneath the surface.

A Kiss Before Dying takes viewers through a provocative tale of how the desperation for status and luxury can lead to moral decay and catastrophic decisions. The film invites its audience to consider the implications of unchecked ambition, the value of integrity, and the thin line between love and obsession. With a blend of romantic entanglement and suspenseful thrills, it provides a cinematic experience that keeps the viewer guessing until the very end, ensuring that audiences remain on edge as the story unfolds towards its inevitable and dramatic conclusion.

The 1991 film of A Kiss Before Dying is thus recognized as a psychological thriller that plays on the fears and fascinations of its audience, delivering a chilling portrayal of a man whose lust for success knows no moral boundary. Fans of the genre are likely to appreciate the film for its combination of solid performances, suspenseful storytelling, and the troubling psychological depths it explores.