Director Sophie Hyde has shared an exciting update about her upcoming film An Ideal Wife, starring Emilia Clarke. The period drama, which delves into the life of Constance Lloyd (Clarke), Irish author and wife of famed Victorian-era playwright Oscar Wilde, is set to begin filming later this year.
In an interview with ScreenRant, Hyde revealed new details about An Ideal Wife, exploring Lloyd’s role as a feminist activist and her journey through her estranged marriage after Wilde is imprisoned for homosexuality. Hyde emphasized the importance of breaking away from binary ideas of sexuality, gender, and identity, citing Oscar Wilde as an example.
Clarke’s role in An Ideal Wife signals an exciting new chapter in her career, as she pivots toward more nuanced and challenging roles. Clarke is best known for playing Daenerys Targaryen on HBO’s Game of Thrones, and her upcoming projects suggest a shift toward more grounded storytelling.
An Ideal Wife not only allows Clarke to embody another significant historical figure but also gives her the opportunity to explore a layered story as a strong-willed woman experiencing an impassioned sexual awakening. Hyde’s previous films have consistently offered a raw and nuanced exploration of human identity, and her ability to balance vulnerability and strength could bring an electrifying depth to Clarke’s next role.
The film promises to be both a poignant and empowering Victorian-era drama, celebrating a woman’s individuality. Clarke’s return to the big screen in a story that celebrates a woman’s individuality is something to look forward to, and An Ideal Wife could become a defining moment in her post-Game of Thrones career.