Marie

Marie is a compelling film released in 1985, directed by the acclaimed Roger Donaldson. Residing in the genre of crime-drama and biopic, the film captivates from the onset, offering an insightful look into corruption and politics while skillfully intertwining it with human drama and resilience against all odds. Set against the backdrop of 1970s Tennessee, the film stars Sissy Spacek in the titular role of Marie, showcasing a deeply moving portrayal of a single mother turned whistleblower, navigating the echelons of bureaucracy while displaying formidable resolve and courage.

Complementing Spacek is the talented Jeff Daniels, who essays the role of a determined and principled lawyer, Ron Liebman, while Keith Szarabajka unfolds as a shrewd and sophisticated criminal, seeking to pervert the course of justice. The film takes the viewer through a labyrinth of crime, corruption, and political society, providing an unflinching commentary on the abuse of power and the resilience of human spirit.

Marie, a divorcee and a mother to three daughters, finds herself reluctantly implicated in a web of corruption when she takes up a job at the Tennessee Board of Pardons and Paroles. She lands the job thanks to her personal connection with the then-Governor, Ray Blanton, played by Don Hood, thus introducing her to the world of politics. However, as she starts working, she discerns alarming criminal activities, illegal pardons, and unsolicited favoritism running rampant in the department under the guise of public service.

Though initially tentative due to the fear of repercussions, Sissy Spacek’s Marie decides to take a stand against these systemic malpractices and blow the whistle, making her a target for the corrupt fraternity. What follows is a relentless struggle, a tug of war between corruption and truth with Marie's life and that of her beloved ones at stake.

Jeff Daniels, as Ron Liebman, comes into the picture as Marie's only support in her battle against this powerful and corrupt system. Daniels masterfully brings life into the character of the investigative lawyer, who helps Marie in painstakingly gathering evidence against the corrupt politicians endangering the lives of many innocent people. Despite being up against a formidable force, the duo continues their pursuit for justice driven by their unwavering faith in the principles of truth and law.

Keith Szarabajka shines in his role as a manipulative villain, showcasing the extent of his power in the political stratosphere and his desperation to guard his secrets from the hands of the law. His interactions with Marie and Ron accentuate the tension, adding layers of drama and suspense, keeping the audience at the edge of their seats.

The supporting cast — including the likes of Morgan Freeman, Fred Thompson, and Lisa Banes — adds depth and range to the narrative with their credible performances. The carefully crafted script, interspersed with high-stakes drama and character development, highlights the commendable efforts of everyone involved, which is evident in the emotional heft and the darker shades of the narrative.

The film borrows its factual backdrop from the actual life incidents of Marie Ragghianti, the first female chair of the Tennessee Board of Pardons and Paroles, who exposed the corruption under Governor Ray Blanton's regime. The power-packed performance from the cast, coupled with the direct and gripping style of storytelling, paints a vivid picture of a robust political thriller.

Marie is much more than just a story about corruption and a woman's fight against it. It's about the journey of an ordinary single mother's transformation into an extraordinary beacon of truth and justice. The movie helps in shedding light on the significant issue of corruption at high levels in the political scene, proving its relevance even in contemporary times. Its appeal doesn't date and withstands the test of time, making it a classic addition to the crime-drama genre.