A Small Circle of Friends
A Small Circle of Friends

Movie spotlight

A Small Circle of Friends

1980
Movie
113 min
English

In the late 1960s, three Harvard students Jessica, Leo and Nick grow close as they undergo personal changes, but their friendship is jeopardized by romantic feelings both men develop for Jessica.

Insights

IMDb6.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes33%
Director: Rob CohenGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

Set against the backdrop of the turbulent late 1960s, this film chronicles the intertwined lives of four Berkeley students. It explores their political activism, personal relationships, and the search for identity amidst a changing social landscape. Themes of love, betrayal, and the compromises of idealism are central to their journey.

Critical Reception

A Small Circle of Friends received a mixed reception upon its release. While some critics acknowledged its ambitious scope and performances, many found the narrative unfocused and overly melodramatic. Audiences were similarly divided, with some appreciating its portrayal of the era and others criticizing its perceived preachiness.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its attempts to capture the spirit of the late 60s counterculture.

  • Criticized for a convoluted plot and uneven character development.

  • The film's exploration of political and personal themes was seen as both a strength and a weakness.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film controversially depicted a group of students performing a simulated 'raping' of a campus statue, which led to protests and a backlash against the production.

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