Dennis Manning is a bold, emotionally resonant storyteller who blends magical realism with grounded, character-driven narratives. His work explores universal themes of love, identity, and self-acceptance, particularly through inclusive LGBTQ+ representation. With screenplays like "Undertow and deeply poignant dramas like "The Woman on the Bench", and musicals like "Hometown," "Now & Then," and "One More Yesterday," Dennis creates stories that connect with audiences on a deep emotional level while offering fresh, imaginative perspectives. His ability to seamlessly combine fantasy with human experiences makes him a unique and compelling voice in contemporary filmmaking.
Inclusive, emotional storytelling with magical realism.
The Substitute Wife
The Substitute Wife" is a psychological noir thriller set in 1950s Hollywood, following Claire, a cunning and ambitious secretary who manipulates her way into a deadly scheme to take over her boss's wife’s life. With an intricate web of seduction, murder, and betrayal, the film combines the glamour of classic noir with modern psychological depth, leading to unexpected twists and morally ambiguous characters. Think Double Indemnity meets Gone Girl with a sophisticated, dark edge.
The Substitute Wife
HOLLYWOOD 1953 - Film Noir
When a secretary has an affair with her married boss and becomes pregnant, she schemes to take over his life by killing his wife and trying to assume her identity. The screenplay centers around Claire, a cunning and ambitious secretary who begins an affair with her married boss, Bryce. When Bryce's wife Loraine is unable to have children, Claire agrees to be a surrogate mother in exchange for money and the promise of "everything" from Bryce. Claire cuts the brakes on Loraine's car, causing it to crash off a mountain road. Believing Loraine to be dead, Claire moves into her role as lady of the house. However, Loraine secretly survived the crash and works with the police to ultimately expose Claire's crimes. Claire is arrested, while Loraine, Bryce, and Bryce's new lover Eve are able to move on with their lives together.
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