Sisters (1972) plays on the art of assumption, if someone looks good, then we are less likely to see them as a threat. The film charters the quest of journalist Grace (Jennifer Salt), who after witnessing a brutal murder in the adjacent apartment, seeks to bring the occupant Dominque (Margot Kidder) to justice. The use of using a dual narrative of both Grace and Dominque, creates a cat and mouse scenario which is a very effective tool in simultaneously giving the viewer information. This feeds into the juxtaposition of the two female characters, beauty versus brains. However, despite their different approaches to the world, they are both subjected to the limitations of misogyny. Dominque encounters it by the male elitism of medicine and Grace faces it with the male-dominated police force. With reference to racism, sexism, and prejudice it is a film that gives an overview of 1972 America. Sisters is certainly clever and uses it’s cast well, to make a social protest.
My only criticism was the physical portrayal of Dominque’s twin sister Margot, who embodied a dangerous and demented personality. To show the ‘evil twin’ she was made to look more grotesque then her apparent saner and more attractive twin sister. The use of using a physical disability or mental disturbance to show wickedness was too similar to a historic James Bond villain. Despite this, I have to remember I am watching the film over 30 years after its release, being privy to both hindsight and political correctness.
(Photography: Pressman-Williams Enterprises)
Sisters,1972 (film), directed by Brian DE PALMA, USA: Pressman-Williams Enterprises
