“Serena,” a 2014 drama film directed by Susanne Bier, is a haunting and captivating adaptation of Ron Rash’s 2008 novel. Set in the rugged mountains of North Carolina during the 1930s, the film explores the darker side of ambition, power, and human nature, while immersing viewers in a world where the clash of dreams and reality leads to tragic consequences.

The story follows George Pemberton (Bradley Cooper) and his newlywed wife, Serena (Jennifer Lawrence), as they build a timber business in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. At first glance, their partnership seems perfect. Serena is strong, ambitious, and capable of handling any challenge, and together, they manage their business with great success. However, beneath this façade of prosperity lies a deepening tension between the couple, driven by personal ambition and the harsh environment in which they operate.

Serena, a woman with a fierce determination, seeks to control every aspect of their business. Her unyielding desire for power and her ruthlessness when it comes to protecting her interests make her an unsettling character. Her unwavering confidence quickly turns into a dangerous obsession, as she shows no hesitation in eliminating anyone who threatens her vision. In contrast, George, though equally ambitious, is eventually overshadowed by his wife’s dominance and becomes a mere bystander in their unraveling world.