‘His game. Her rules.’
Sanctuary is a 2022 American psychological drama thriller about a high-class sex worker and Hal, her wealthy client, and the disaster that ensues when Hal tries to end their dominant role-playing relationship.
Directed by Zachary Wigon from a screenplay written by Micah Bloomberg. Produced by Pavel Burian, David Lancaster, Ilya Stewart and Stephanie Wilcox.
The Charades-Hype Studios-Mosaic Films-Rumble Films production stars Christopher Abbott, Margaret Qualley, Danita Battle, Rene Calvo, Christian Casatelli and Dominic Defilips.
Reviews:
” …the deepest pleasures of Sanctuary are in how Abbott and Qualley – both identifiably horny and human – suck every drip of pleasure out of Micah Bloomberg’s script. Like a found footage movie always has to convince the audience as to why the characters never drop the camera, so a one-on-one drama must explain why the protagonists never just leave the room, and instead remain in each other’s death grip.” 3.5 out of 5, Austin Chronicle
“With energetic insight and humor, Sanctuary scrapes and scrapes at these characters and the power dynamics between them. The final beat, a perfect punch line told in a tone that’s completely uncharacteristic to the rest of the film, proves the work the filmmakers have done.” 3 out of 4, Mark Reviews Movies
“The sexual attraction between Hal and Rebecca is obvious, but what happens when what the heart wants is entangled with the need for psychological dominance? When two people find that they share the same kink, even if it throws the rest of their life into chaos, can they ever truly let one another go? There are plenty of comfortable rom-coms out there, but Sanctuary is a surprisingly beguiling and witty romance for those who like their love stories to need a safe word.” 3.5 out of 5, Punch Drunk Critics
“The performers here have such generous chemistry with one another and it’s a joy to watch them play out this psychosexual commentary on gender and power roles with such artistic fervor. This is a film that toys with perception and control with wickedly sharp dialogue that these two incredible actors just eat up. It’s proof that single-setting two-handers can still be vibrant and alive…” RogerEbert.com
“There are some sophisticated ideas about gender and capitalism at play, but they’re drowned out by situations that feel like they were solely added to the screenplay to push buttons or at least garner some uncomfortable, cringey laughter. What begins as a feminist-leaning story transforms into one that’s more off-putting and problematic.” Screen Zealots
“Already having proved herself as a young talent to watch with her memorable supporting role in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Margaret Qualley dominates (pun intended) the screen in Sanctuary as she engages in a vicious battle of the sexes with Christopher Abbott’s Hal. He is admittedly a less enticing screen presence. Altogether, Margaret Qualley’s excellent performance is enough for me to give Sanctuary a minor recommendation.” 3.5 out of 5, Sean Kelly on Movies
” …the power dynamic shifts throughout, and guessing where it’s going is part of the fun. This movie isn’t really trying to make any grand statements about gender or sexuality, although I expect some will see that in the film where it’s not there. The director has some serious skill with color palettes and shot compositions. But the best thing about the movie is the two actors.” Tilt
YouTube reviews:
Trailer [1080p HD]:
Cast and characters:
Christopher Abbott … Hal
Danita Battle … Hal’s Mother
Rene Calvo … Younger Phil Porterfield
Christian Casatelli … Young Hal
Francisco Castaneda … Man in the Hallway
Dominic Defilips … Older Phil Porterfield
Margaret Qualley … Rebecca
Kathie Young … Woman in the Hallway
Filming locations:
New York City, New York
