Submission

Stanley Tucci plays an English professor and novelist who puts his career in jeopardy when he falls for a talented student (Addison Timlin). The film's subject matter, about a man abusing his position of power, is a subject ripe for exploration. However, the film's script has little interest in reading between the lines. Instead, we have Tucci's ego-driven writer lured into a trap set by Timlin's ruthless temptress. The story does touch on the complex nature of the scandal, but given we are told very early on who is the victim here, the debate is very basic. Elevating the thin material is the always interesting Tucci, offering a relatable performance opposite Timlin, who pulls an intriguing veil of innocence over her character's scheming. Co-star Kyra Sedgwick is wasted in a one-dimensional role as Tucci's adoring wife. Submission has strong performances and challenging subject matter, but ultimately lacks the courage to do something interesting with either.