Drowning by Numbers is a 1988 British film directed by Peter Greenaway. The film has a unique structure that divides the story into three parts, each showcasing the story of a different Cissie Colpitts. The film is set in a idyllic English countryside, where the three women live with their families.
The first Cissie, played by Joan Plowright, is an eccentric older woman who has a passion for playing games. She spends most of her time playing hopscotch, chess and other games with her grandson and her younger sister Madgett, played by Juliet Stevenson. The second Cissie, played by Joely Richardson, is a trophy wife who wants to get away from her abusive husband. She has a secret affair with the local coroner, played by Bernard Hill. The third and youngest Cissie, played by Jason Edwards, is a rebellious teenager who is obsessed with death.
As the film progresses, the three women become closer and decide to carry out a series of murders, each one stealing the idea from the previous one. They drown their victims in a nearby river, always leaving behind a numbered object as proof of their achievement. The coroner helps to cover up their crimes by falsifying the autopsy reports.
Drowning by Numbers is a visually stunning film that celebrates the beauty of nature in its landscapes. It is also a deeply ironic and satirical film that explores the themes of love, death, and game-playing. The film received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising Greenaway's unique approach to storytelling and cinematography.