Revolutionary Road (2008)

7.3R119 minDirector: Sam Mendes

2008 film by Sam Mendes

Revolutionary Road is a 2008 romantic drama film directed by Sam Mendes and written by Justin Haythe, based on the 1961 novel by Richard Yates. It stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet as Frank and April Wheeler, with Michael Shannon, Kathryn Hahn, David Harbour and Kathy Bates in supporting roles. Set from the late 1940s to the mid-1950s, the film portrays the Wheelers' struggle to cope with their personal problems and the ensuing breakdown in their marriage. Revolutionary Road is the second onscreen collaboration for DiCaprio, Winslet and Bates, all of whom previously co-starred in Titanic (1997). The film's soundtrack was composed by Thomas Newman, his fourth collaboration with Mendes.

Development of the film adaptation began in 1961. However, a lack of commercial prospects and disagreements with the screenplay caused the project to be in limbo until the 2000s. BBC Films eventually purchased the film rights to the novel, and Haythe rewrote the screenplay. Winslet read the script and persuaded her then-husband Mendes to direct, and DiCaprio to play the role of Frank.

Revolutionary Road was theatrically released in the United States on December 26, 2008, by Paramount Pictures. The film grossed more than $79.5 million worldwide and received positive reviews from critics, who mostly praised the performances of Winslet, DiCaprio and Shannon, as well as its faithfulness to the novel. At the 81st Academy Awards, the film earned three nominations: Best Supporting Actor for Shannon, Best Art Direction, and Best Costume Design. It also received four nominations at the 62nd British Academy Film Awards and four nominations, including Best Motion Picture – Drama, at the 66th Golden Globe Awards, with Winslet winning Best Actress.

Plot summary adapted from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

FAQ

What is Revolutionary Road about?
Revolutionary Road (2008) — It's 1955. Frank and April Wheeler, are in the 'seven year itch' of their marriage; they're not happy. April has forgone her dream of being an actress, and Frank hates his job. One day, April suggests they move to Paris as a means to rejuvenate their life.
Is Revolutionary Road based on a true story?
See the production background and source material details on the official Wikipedia article.
Is Revolutionary Road scary?
Content rating: R. See the reviews tab for parental guidance and tone notes.