Watch Claim

Claim, a 2002 thriller directed by Martin Lagestee, stars Louise Lombard, Billy Zane, and John Shrapnel. The film follows the story of Catherine and David, a wealthy couple who have seemingly found the perfect place to build their dream home in the Italian countryside. However, as they begin construction, they uncover an ancient Roman villa on their property with a valuable mosaic. This discovery leads to a legal battle with a prominent Italian archeologist named Lanfredi, who claims that the villa and its treasures belong to the Italian government.

Catherine and David hire a local lawyer, Gianni, to fight Lanfredi's claims in court. As the legal battle unfolds, Catherine and David become increasingly obsessed with the history of the villa and the mosaic. They begin digging deeper into the past, becoming more and more determined to keep the villa and its treasures for themselves.

However, things take a sinister turn as they discover that Lanfredi is not the only one after the treasures. A group of thieves, led by the dangerous and mysterious Arturo, also has their eyes on the villa. Catherine and David find themselves caught in the middle of a dangerous game of cat and mouse as they try to protect their property and outmaneuver their adversaries.

As the tension builds, secrets from the past are revealed, and Catherine and David's marriage begins to crumble under the pressure. With their livelihood and safety at stake, they must decide how far they are willing to go to protect their claim on the property and its treasures.

Lombard shines as Catherine, a woman struggling with her desire for the past and her present. Her performance captures the character's multifaceted personality, showcasing her vulnerabilities and strength. Zane also delivers a solid performance as David, playing the role of a man driven by his ambition and desire for status.

Shrapnel's portrayal of Lanfredi brings an air of authenticity to the film, adding depth to the legal and ethical issues surrounding the ownership of historical artifacts. The supporting cast also delivers competent performances, creating a well-rounded ensemble that complements the lead actors.

The film's production values are impressive, with stunning visuals of the Italian countryside and impressive cinematography. The score by Anne Dudley enhances the film's tension, capturing the mood of each scene.

Overall, Claim is a captivating thriller that explores the lengths to which people will go to protect their fortunes and their legacies. With its strong performances and beautiful visuals, the film is a must-watch for fans of the genre.