Stars Revel in Dark Satire’s Gritty Realism
Actors Richard E. Grant and Claire Foy have expressed their enthusiasm for subverting traditional British costume dramas with their new darkly comic film, Savage House. The stars found particular enjoyment in the film’s departure from the genre’s usual polish, embracing its raw and unflinching portrayal of its historical setting.
Grant described the film as the “impolite version of any period film,” highlighting his appreciation for its unvarnished depiction of reality. “I just really loved the kind of dirt and grime and grossness of it all,” he stated, emphasizing that the film’s imperfections contribute to a more authentic and relatable experience. “Nothing is perfect and you feel that it’s almost falling apart and stinky. So I liked all of that. It was much more realistic.”
Embracing Authenticity Over Idealization
Co-star Claire Foy echoed Grant’s sentiments, noting that the film’s realism was a key appeal. “That’s what it felt like, realistic and not holding it to high esteem – not sort of worshipping it, which I think can happen a lot,” Foy commented. While acknowledging her fondness for more idealized period pieces, she found the “dirt and grime and grossness” of Savage House particularly compelling.
A Satirical Look at Ambition and Power
The synopsis for Savage House sets the stage in 18th-century England amidst a pox outbreak and the Jacobite Uprising. The film follows Sir Chauncey Savage (Grant) and Lady Savage (Foy) in their relentless pursuit of a better life, a blind ambition ironically reflected in their family name. The narrative promises a “madcap play on class and power,” filled with duels, decadence, and bloodshed.
A Notable Ensemble Cast and Director
Beyond Grant and Foy, the film features a strong supporting cast including Sebastian Armesto, Roger Ashton-Griffiths, Bel Powley, Jack Farthing, Kíla Lord Cassidy, Richard McCabe, Vicki Pepperdine, and Pip Torrens. The project is directed by Peter Glanz, who previously contributed as a writer to the MCU film Captain America: Brave New World and wrote and directed the 2014 romantic comedy The Longest Week.
Recent and Upcoming Projects for the Stars
Richard E. Grant was recently seen in the Netflix film Ladies First and is anticipated in the upcoming UK season of The Celebrity Traitors. Claire Foy has led the casts of two films this year: H Is for Hawk and The Magic Faraway Tree.
Savage House is currently playing in UK cinemas.
