Watch Mrs. Soffel

Mrs. Soffel is a 1984 period drama based on the true story of Kate Soffel, a prison warden's wife who becomes romantically involved with two of his prisoners, the Biddle brothers. The film stars Diane Keaton as Mrs. Soffel, Mel Gibson as Ed Biddle, and Matthew Modine as Jack Biddle. The movie is set in Pittsburgh during the early 1900s, with the beginning of the film focusing on the Soffel family's life at the Allegheny County Jail. Kate Soffel is portrayed as a dutiful wife and mother, but she longs for something more exciting and meaningful in her life. She often visits death row inmates, providing them with religious teachings and spiritual guidance. During one of her visits, she meets the Biddle brothers, two young men who have been sentenced to death for murder. Despite their criminal history, Kate becomes drawn to their charismatic personalities and charm. As the story progresses, Kate becomes more and more involved with the Biddle brothers, trying to help them escape the prison. Through a series of events, the three end up on the run together, falling further into a complicated and forbidden love triangle. While on the run, they travel throughout Pennsylvania, staying in different towns and trying to avoid getting caught. However, their freedom is short-lived, and as the story comes to a close, the audience watches as the characters face the consequences of their actions. The film's performances are strong, with Diane Keaton delivering a nuanced portrayal of a woman trapped in an unfulfilling life. Mel Gibson and Matthew Modine are equally impressive as the charming and dangerous Biddle brothers. However, some critics found the chemistry between the characters lacking, with the romantic storyline feeling forced and unrealistic. In addition to the strong performances, Mrs. Soffel's cinematography and set design are notable highlights. The film beautifully captures the mood and atmosphere of the time period, with dark, moody visuals that add to the intensity of the story. The sets and costumes are also incredibly detailed, further immersing the audience in the film's world. Overall, Mrs. Soffel is a well-made film that explores themes of love, morality, and the consequences of our actions. While it may not be for everyone, the performances and production value make it worth a watch.