Bridgerton Star's 'Anniversary' Thriller Lands on Netflix
As the Regency romance of Bridgerton continues to captivate audiences with its fourth season dropping this week, Netflix is serving up a stark contrast: a provocative political thriller starring one of the show's breakout stars. Phoebe Dynevor, who enchanted viewers as Daphne Bridgerton in seasons one and two, leads the cast in Anniversary, a dark satire that's generating buzz for its timely social commentary and edge-of-your-seat tension. Originally released in cinemas last October, the film underperformed at the box office but is poised for a streaming revival when it arrives on Netflix on February 1st.
What is 'Anniversary' About?
Directed by an up-and-coming visionary, Anniversary unfolds against the backdrop of a seemingly idyllic American family celebration. The story centres on the Taylor family, affluent and accomplished, as they gather to mark the 25th wedding anniversary of Ellen (Diane Lane) and Paul (Kyle Chandler). Tensions simmer when their son Josh (Dylan O'Brien), a struggling novelist, introduces his fiancée Liz (Phoebe Dynevor) to the fold.
What starts as a polite family affair quickly unravels. Ellen, a respected academic, recognises Liz from her past as a former student who was expelled for espousing extreme totalitarian views. Now, Liz has risen as a charismatic leader in 'The Change', a radical movement blending ideology with unrest, threatening to fracture both the nation and the family's fragile unity. The film masterfully blends domestic drama with broader political intrigue, exploring themes of ideology, privilege, and the fragility of societal norms in a divided America.
Spoiler-free, Anniversary is a slow-burn thriller that escalates into a claustrophobic nightmare. It's less about jump scares and more about the psychological dread of watching good intentions collide with dangerous extremism. In a post-election landscape, its commentary on populism and family loyalty feels eerily prescient, making it a must-watch for anyone tuned into current events.
Star-Studded Cast and Standout Performances
The ensemble is a highlight, packed with talent that elevates the script's sharp dialogue and layered characters. Phoebe Dynevor trades her corsets for modern unease, delivering a nuanced portrayal of Liz that's equal parts alluring and unsettling. Her chemistry with O'Brien crackles, turning what could be a clichéd couple into a powder keg of unspoken motives.
Diane Lane Steals the Show
Diane Lane anchors the film as Ellen, the matriarch whose poised facade cracks under the weight of moral dilemmas. Critics and fans alike praise her for conveying volumes through subtle expressions – a raised eyebrow here, a fleeting glance there – building an atmosphere of suffocating tension. Kyle Chandler complements her as the pragmatic Paul, adding depth to the family's dynamic with his everyman reliability that's tested in unexpected ways.
Supporting roles shine too: Zoey Deutch as a sceptical sibling, Mckenna Grace as the wide-eyed younger family member, Madeline Brewer bringing edge to a activist ally, and Daryl McCormack and Sky Yang rounding out the ensemble with authentic grit. Dylan O'Brien, known for lighter fare like The Maze Runner, surprises by making Josh profoundly unlikeable, a testament to the film's ability to subvert expectations.
Critical Reception and Fan Buzz
Despite its box office struggles – likely overshadowed by blockbuster releases – Anniversary has garnered fervent praise from those who've seen it. On IMDb, one viewer dubbed it "the single most scary film of 2025," lauding its ability to juggle multiple themes without losing bite. "It has very good teeth and chews very well," they noted, highlighting the script's intelligence.
Fans echo this sentiment across platforms. "You need to watch this movie. Seriously," implored another, warning of its depiction of unchecked ideologies. A third called it "Terrifying!" for its dystopian undertones, crediting Lane's facial acting for the film's emotional core. The slow build to a "suffocating" climax leaves viewers rattled, pondering real-world parallels long after the credits roll.
One enthusiastic review proclaimed it "The Most Important Film Of The Year," urging audiences not to miss its blend of power, intensity, and humour. Another hailed Lane as "awards-worthy," predicting Anniversary could sneak into contention despite the awards season shuffle. With a runtime under two hours, it's accessible yet profound, ideal for Netflix binges.
Why Watch 'Anniversary' Now? Tie-In with Bridgerton Hype
Timing couldn't be better. As Bridgerton Season 4 dives into Benedict's romance, Dynevor's return to screens in a genre-bending role offers fans a fresh perspective on her range. From period elegance to modern menace, she proves her versatility. For UK viewers, catching Anniversary aligns perfectly with the streaming surge – and if you're on Sky, pair it with their Netflix bundle for Bridgerton at no extra cost on plans from £15.
Beyond entertainment, Anniversary sparks discussion on timely issues like radicalisation and family divides. In an era of polarised politics, its satire isn't just entertaining; it's a mirror to society. Underrated gems like this deserve the spotlight Netflix can provide, potentially turning it into a sleeper hit.
Whether you're a Bridgerton devotee or thriller aficionado, Anniversary delivers. Stream it this weekend and join the conversation – you might just find it's the film that lingers longest in 2025.
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