The Burning Plain

The writer of Amores Perros, 21 Grams and Babel, Guillermo Arriaga, makes his feature directorial debut with this romantic crime drama starring Charlize Theron, Kim Basinger and Jennifer Lawrence. Told with Arriaga's trademark disregard for linear time, the film weaves together the lives of three women in a dark tale that speaks of guilt, loss and revenge. Oregon resident Sylvia is a successful restaurateur who conceals her emotional frailties behind a series of one night stands and icy personal relationships with those around her. In New Mexico, Gina is half-heartedly looking after her family while also conducting a passionate affair with her Mexican lover Nick. And the reaction of Gina's daughter Mariana to her mother's affair is set to have dramatic consequences for all involved, as the narrative makes its fractured way to its tragic climax... Jennifer Lawrence picked up an award at the 2008 Venice Film Festival for her performance.