Margaret Qualley and Christopher Abbott star as a sinister dominatrix and her wealthy client in Zachary Wigon’s thrilling two-hander “Sanctuary.” It takes place throughout one intense night as client and dealer battle it out for dominance. The film marks Wigon’s second feature film following 2014’s “The Heart Machine” and allows the film critic and director to branch out into darker themes and ideas with his sophomore feature.
Filmed over 18 days in New York City, “Sanctuary” opens in a hotel room which will become the setting for an eventful, sexually charged evening between Rebecca (Margaret Qualley) and Hal (Christopher Abbott). Audiences are introduced to what appears to be a background review between Rebecca and Hal for the CEO position at a hotel chain. But as her questions become increasingly personal and improper, the true nature of their meeting and relationship becomes known.
With a promotion on the horizon for Hal following his father’s death, he attempts to end the sessions with Rebecca. He claims that they’re not a suitable part of his new lifestyle. She doesn’t exactly take the news well. Rebecca argues that she’s entitled to half of Hal’s hefty new salary. Why? Because of the skills she taught him during their sessions. In addition, she doesn’t want their agreement to end.
Margaret Qualley and Christopher Abbott in “Sanctuary” (Photo: Neon).
A Spicy Evening That Pushes the Character to Their Limits
What ensues between her and Hal is a potent and volatile evening that pushes them both to their limits. Even though “Sanctuary” is confined to a hotel suite and only two characters, Zachary Wigon manages to craft a nail-biting thriller that keeps the audience engaged and hanging on to every word uttered by these complex characters. The compelling performances given by Margaret Qualley and Christopher Abbott guide the film. They battle it out in a twisting battle of words, power, and control over a stirring 96 minutes. Qualley delivers a spectacular performance throughout the film. She embodies the character of Rebecca with a fierce confidence that makes for an intoxicating portrayal. It is hard to look away when she’s on screen.
Her vicious, chilling demeanor leads to explosive clashes with Christopher Abbott’s performance as Hal. The American actor, known for his work on independent films like 2020’s “Black Bear” and HBO’s “Girls,” delivers a layered performance that is a stark contrast to his usually reserved roles. It allows audiences to see multiple sides of Hal, from explosive outbursts to his woeful submission to Rebecca. These electric performances allow “Sanctuary” to ensure audiences receive a heavy dose of entertaining banter and character dynamics. They bring the strong screenplay by “Homecoming” Writer and Creator Micah Bloomberg to life.
Ludovica Isidori (“Test Pattern”) provides “Sanctuary” with striking cinematography that highlights the intense performances given by Qualley and Abbott. Uncomfortable close-ups and various abnormal angles emphasize the volatile tension that emanates from the conflict between Hal and Rebecca. If abstract angles and awkward close-ups weren’t enough, Composer Ariel Marx (“Shiva Baby,” “Candy”) crafts a score rife with high-pitched, dissonant tones that superbly reflect the tone of the film. In addition, it heightens the anxiety of the entire situation. For the most part, “Sanctuary” is a film that entertains its audience by keeping them engrossed in the complex conversations occurring between two conflicted characters. But that doesn’t mean it escapes having any flaws.
A scene from “Sanctuary” (Photo: Neon).
Zachary Wigon’s Latest Exceeds Expectations
One of the glaring issues comes right at the end. The ending for these two characters and their relationship feels as though it comes out of nowhere. Because of such, it makes what happened between them both seem obsolete. While it’s certainly not an expected ending for either character, it does end up working with them both their personalities. Hal finally comes to terms with the fact that he cannot be the same type of man his father was. Hal notices that he isn’t suitable for the role of CEO in his company after he passes. While on the other side, Rebecca realizes her skills as a Dominatrix can be put to better use in the world of business and considers a career change.
“Sanctuary” manages to uphold itself as a stylish psychological thriller that exceeds expectations, even if it may stumble through its final moments. Qualley and Abbott deliver two spectacular performances that drive a stirring narrative that brings Micah Bloomberg’s ingenious screenplay to the screen with ease.
“Sanctuary” is now available on VOD.
