'' is a
2002 film written and directed by
Todd Haynes and starring
Julianne Moore ,
Dennis Quaid ,
Dennis Haysbert ,
Ryan Ward ,
Patricia Clarkson , and
James Rebhorn .
Set in
Suburb an
1950s Connecticut , the film takes on the visual tone and style of a 1950s
Period Piece , yet openly concerns dramatic issues —
Race ,
Sexuality , and
Class among them — that even the bravest writers and directors of the era could only suggest.
Moore plays Cathy Whitaker, a
Housewife in
1950s Connecticut whose seemingly idyllic life slowly falls apart. Her husband, Frank (Quaid) is a
Closet Homosexual and
Alcoholic who tries to deny and overcome his sexuality, but eventually leaves her for another man. Meanwhile, she befriends her black gardener, Raymond Degan (Haysbert), despite the
Racist disapproval of the townspeople, both white and black.
''Far From Heaven'' was nominated for
Academy Awards for
Best Actress In A Leading Role (Moore),
Best Cinematography ,
Best Music, Original Score and
Best Writing, Screenplay Written Directly For The Screen .
Haynes later said he meant ''Far From Heaven'' as homage to the films of
Douglas Sirk , especially to ''
All That Heaven Allows '' and ''
Imitation Of Life ''.
It is on the ''
New York Times '' list of "Best 1000 Movies Ever Made."
