Dolores Claiborne (film)

Dolores Claiborne is a 1995 American psychological thriller film directed by Taylor Hackford and starring Kathy Bates and Jennifer Jason Leigh. Based on the 1992 novel of the same name by Stephen King, the film tells the story of Dolores Claiborne, a hardened and fiercely independent woman living on Little Tall Island, Maine, who is accused of murdering her wealthy, abusive employer, Vera Donovan.

The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks and present-day investigations, exploring themes of guilt, innocence, family secrets, and the enduring bond between a mother and daughter. Selena St. George, Dolores' estranged daughter and a successful New York journalist, returns home upon hearing of the murder and becomes embroiled in the mystery surrounding her mother's involvement.

As Selena investigates, long-buried secrets about her childhood and her father's suspicious death come to light, forcing her to confront her past and question her perceptions of her mother. The film interweaves the two murder investigations – Vera Donovan's and Selena's father's – highlighting the complex dynamics of Dolores' relationships and the oppressive atmosphere of the small island community.

Dolores Claiborne is notable for its strong performances, particularly by Bates and Leigh, its exploration of complex female characters, and its blend of suspense, drama, and family melodrama. While taking liberties with King's original novel, the film is generally considered a faithful adaptation, capturing the novel's dark atmosphere and its focus on the power of maternal love and sacrifice. It received generally positive reviews and is recognized as one of the more successful adaptations of Stephen King's work.