Based on a rare original screenplay by renowned American playwright Tennessee Williams, The Loss of a Teardrop Diamond tells the touching story of a young, defiant and strikingly modern debutante from the Roaring Twenties. After returning from her studies abroad, Fisher Willow (Bryce Dallas Howard) – the daughter of a wealthy, notorious plantation owner – daringly employs her father's down-and-out farmhand, Jimmy Dobyne (Chris Evans), to be her companion for the decadent party season. Fisher passes Jimmy off as a well-to-do suitor so that she can satisfy her family, especially her Great-Aunt Cornelia (Ann-Margret), who controls their fortune. As Fisher and Jimmy spend more and more time together, her infatuation with him grows, and she begins to contemplate the cost of jeopardizing her fortune and social status in order to experience true love. However, although Jimmy is captivated by Fisher's spirit, he may not share her affections. Soon enough, the loss of a priceless teardrop diamond earring generates a chain of allegations that spins the pair's uncertain relationship out of control.
First-time feature director Jodie Markell (best-known for her recurring role on the HBO series Big Love) injects the film with a heavy dose of visual dynamism that forms a richly detailed, authentic and exceptionally atmospheric portrayal of the last vestiges of the Old South. The film is particularly faithful in tone, location and language to Williams's unique vision – you can actually feel the Southern heat and dark undercurrents. Howard and the other women in the film's terrific ensemble cast – which also includes Ellen Burstyn and Mamie Gummer – are equally remarkable and courageous, remaining true to Williams's Southern belles while providing a uniquely contemporary touch. They are perfectly complemented by Evans's charismatic presence as Jimmy.
Boasting elegant costumes, sumptuous set designs, a magnificent Southern backdrop and marvellous dialogue, The Loss of a Teardrop Diamond is a finely crafted tale of the overwhelming powers of seduction, temptation and heartbreak.
Jodie Markell was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and is an actor, writer and director. She has appeared in many films and television series, including Todd Haynes's Safe (95), Woody Allen's Hollywood Ending (02) and the HBO series Big Love (06). She wrote, directed and starred in the short film Why I Live at the P.O. (98). The Loss of a Teardrop Diamond (08) marks her feature directing debut.