In the thought-provoking film "White Lies," we follow the journey of Catherine, portrayed by the talented Sarah Polley. Catherine is a bright, middle-class girl navigating the tumultuous waters of first-year university life. Feeling increasingly alienated and disconnected from the liberal culture surrounding her on campus, she finds herself at a crossroads. In search of a place where she truly belongs, she unexpectedly encounters the charismatic leaders of the neo-nazi organization NIM. What starts as a quest for community soon spirals into something dangerously complex as Catherine begins to reshape her identity.
As Catherine immerses herself within this hate group, she transforms from a hesitant student into one of the organization’s most vocal supporters. She gains a following and becomes a prominent figure in the group, passionately defending their controversial beliefs. With Tanya Allen playing Erina, a supporting character who often serves as a moral compass, the film beautifully contrasts the extremes of ideology and the personal dilemmas faced by those involved. While Catherine finds herself rising within the ranks of NIM, the film intricately explores her internal struggle as she grapples with the stark reality of her newfound beliefs and the implications they hold on her personal relationships and sense of self.
As the narrative unfolds, Catherine’s journey becomes a compelling reflection on the nature of belief and identity. The film artfully depicts her gradual questioning of the ideologies she once fervently embraced, presenting an intense examination of how easily one's convictions can be influenced. As she confronts the uncomfortable truths of the hate group and the impact of her involvement on those around her, viewers are left to ponder the complexities of belonging, belief, and personal ethics in a world increasingly divided by ideology. "White Lies" invites audiences to navigate this intricate landscape alongside Catherine, ultimately challenging us to reflect on our own beliefs and the paths we choose in search of acceptance.
Main Cast of White Lies
Sarah Polley
Catherine
Sarah Polley delivers a nuanced and compelling performance as Catherine, the protagonist in the film "White Lies" (1999), also known as "Guinevere." Polley encapsulates the complexity of a young woman on the cusp of adulthood, grappling with the intricacies of love, desire, and self-discovery. Her portrayal of Catherine is both tender and fierce, capturing the character's vulnerability as she navigates a tumultuous relationship with a much older man, played by Stephen Rea. Polley's performance is a standout, as she seamlessly transitions from innocence to a burgeoning sense of empowerment, peeling back the layers of Catherine's psyche with a maturity that belies her years. Her ability to convey the inner turmoil and evolution of her character with subtlety and depth is a testament to her talent, making her portrayal a poignant exploration of the trials and triumphs of coming of age.
Tanya Allen
Erina
In the poignant film "White Lies," Tanya Allen delivers a compelling performance as Erina, a character whose journey through the narrative is marked by her struggle with identity and the unraveling of long-held secrets. Erina's complexity is masterfully portrayed by Allen, who brings a nuanced depth to the role, capturing the character's internal conflict with subtlety and emotional resonance. Her interactions with the other characters, particularly her mother Parrish, played by Lynn Whitfield, are fraught with tension and layers of hidden truths. Allen's portrayal of Erina is pivotal to the film's exploration of themes such as racial identity and the search for self-acceptance. Her performance is a standout element of the film, as she skillfully navigates the script's delicate intricacies, ensuring that Erina's evolution is both believable and deeply affecting for the audience.
Jonathan Scarfe
Ian
Jonathan Scarfe delivers a compelling performance as Ian in the movie 'White Lies,' a character whose complexities and emotional depth are essential to the film's exploration of love, secrets, and redemption. Scarfe portrays Ian with a delicate balance of charisma and vulnerability, expertly capturing the internal struggle of a man caught between the life he's built and the unresolved issues of his past. His interactions with the other characters are laced with a palpable intensity and a sense of longing, which Scarfe conveys through nuanced expressions and a measured cadence in his dialogue. As the narrative unfolds, Scarfe's performance becomes increasingly poignant, particularly in the moments where Ian's facade begins to crumble, revealing the raw emotions and moral dilemmas that drive the character's journey towards self-discovery and truth. Scarfe's portrayal is a standout feature of 'White Lies,' offering audiences a character that is both enigmatic and relatable, and whose arc is central to the film's emotional resonance.
Lynn Redgrave
Mrs. K.
Lynn Redgrave delivered a performance of quiet intensity as Mrs. K. in the 1997 film "White Lies," a role that showcased her remarkable range and depth as an actress. Portraying a woman entangled in the complexities of her daughter's involvement with a married man, Redgrave brought a sense of subtlety and nuance to the character, imbuing Mrs. K. with a palpable mix of concern, wisdom, and a hint of her own hidden past. Her interactions with her on-screen daughter, played by Kerry Fox, were fraught with tension and unspoken truths, as Redgrave navigated the delicate dynamics of maternal love and the consequences of deception. Her performance was highlighted by an understated yet powerful presence, capturing the essence of a mother's protective instincts and the difficult choices faced when family loyalty is tested. Redgrave's ability to convey deep emotion with the slightest change in expression or tone made Mrs. K. a memorable character and added layers of complexity to the film's exploration of trust, betrayal, and the intricate web of relationships.
Albert Schultz
Green
Albert Schultz delivers a compelling performance as Green in the 1997 film "White Lies," a role that showcases his versatility and depth as an actor. As Green, a charming and enigmatic man entangled in a web of deceit, Schultz brings a magnetic energy to the screen, captivating the audience with his nuanced portrayal of complexity and moral ambiguity. His interactions with the film's protagonist, Catherine Chapman, played by Gina Gershon, are fraught with tension and chemistry, as Green manipulates and seduces with equal measure. Schultz imbues his character with a sense of danger mixed with vulnerability, making Green both alluring and unsettling. His performance is a standout element of the film, as he navigates the treacherous waters of betrayal and obsession with a finesse that leaves viewers questioning the true nature of his character until the very end.
Secondary Cast of White Lies
William Colgate
Rev. Hunter
Carley Chapdekine
Skinhead Girl
Gil Garratt
Scruffy Student
Michael Kinney
Black Journalist
Matt Richardson
Swastika Head
Camille James
Student Reporter
Nicholas Rice
Older Reporter
Crew of White Lies
Full backstage crew list →
