Diane Lane and Director Jan Komasa Share Insights on the Personal Stories Behind Their Political Thriller in Deadline’s Virtual Screening Series
In her latest film, *Anniversary*, Diane Lane describes the dystopian tale as “hyperbolic” and reminiscent of a horror movie. Directed by Jan Komasa, the film shines a light on contemporary fears, with Lane noting, “The fact that we’ve caught up to it is rather the most frightening aspect… people are starved to see this film because they feel like their fears are seen.”
Set in the year 2025 under Donald Trump’s second presidency, *Anniversary* follows the affluent and progressive Taylor family amid the decline of American democracy and the rise of autocratic rule termed “The Change.” The film reflects the unsettling realities of our current climate.
Based on a story by Komasa and screenwriter Lori Rosene-Gambino, *Anniversary*, distributed by Lionsgate, features Lane as Ellen, a Georgetown academic and the matriarch of the Taylor family. Alongside her husband Paul, portrayed by Kyle Chandler, Ellen manages a complex family dynamic with four adult children. The film intricately explores the growing fractures within the family and society, revealing shifts in power dynamics and relationships as the world around them becomes increasingly dire.
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The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Ellen and Paul’s wedding anniversary, showcasing how familial bonds are tested as parents are separated from their children and siblings turn against one another.
(L-R) Kyle Chandler & Diane Lane in Anniversary. (Photo: Owen Behan / Lionsgate /Courtesy Everett Collection)
Komasa, making his English-language debut, offers a European perspective that strips away much of the sentimentality often found in American narratives. Shot in 2023, during Joe Biden’s presidency, the film critiques the delusional belief that such oppressive circumstances could never occur in the United States.
“Every system takes your children as hostages,” states Komasa, who grew up during the final decade of Soviet rule in Poland. He reflects on the oppressive regimes, explaining, “You could leave, but they had your people. So you have a choice whether to be bold or to comply with everything that was happening.”
Regarding the film’s ominous conclusion, Komasa expressed interest in a sequel, suggesting that there remains hope to escape the dire circumstances depicted. “When people don’t know they are heroes, silent heroes…because they are not tested,” he adds, highlighting the film’s exploration of resilience and the human spirit.
*Anniversary* challenges audiences to confront such testing moments.
