Closing Night Review: Fiery Women Shine in Almodóvar-Lite Melodrama 2026

Closing Night review: Cody Fern's directorial debut is a fiery women-led melodrama that channels Almodóvar-lite flair. Premiering at Toronto, the film offers three substantive roles for female actors over 50, a rarity that makes it sadly impressive.

A Melodrama with Fiery Women at Its Core

In Closing Night, actor-turned-filmmaker Cody Fern assembles a trio of powerhouse actresses: Sarah Paulson, Naomi Watts, and Dianne Wiest. Each brings a unique energy to this talky drama, proving that women over 50 can command the screen with ferocity and nuance. The film's premise, though familiar, is elevated by their performances.

The Ryan Murphy Shadow and Its Impact

Fern's association with Ryan Murphy is unmistakable. Having worked on American Horror Story and American Crime Story, Fern adopts a similar sensationalist style. Yet, like Murphy, he provides sustained work for women who might otherwise be sidelined. Paulson, Watts, and Wiest have all benefited from Murphy's empire, and here they flourish under Fern's direction.

Comparing the Performances

Key Takeaways from Closing Night

• Strong female roles: The film offers three-dimensional characters for women over 50.
• Almodóvar influence: Fern borrows visual flair and melodramatic tone from the Spanish master.
• Murphy-esque style: The dialogue is sharp but occasionally overwrought.
• Career resurgence: Paulson, Watts, and Wiest deliver career-best work.

FAQ

Final Verdict

Closing Night is a flawed but fascinating debut. Fern's script occasionally stumbles, but the fiery women at its heart—Paulson, Watts, and Wiest—deliver performances that resonate. It's a reminder that women over 50 are far from done, and when given the chance, they can light up the screen.

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