Movie spotlight
Understanding Bliss
Elizabeth Sutton, a lecturer from Toronto and Peter Breen, a professor of cultural studies from St. John's, Newfoundland, come together in his town for a secret liaison. All is bliss. But within twenty-four hours, the affair has collapsed. A clash of languages, cultures, and values force them to come to terms with each other's sense of morality.
Insights
Plot Summary
This made-for-television film explores the complexities of a lesbian relationship in the late 1980s. Sarah, a successful lawyer, finds herself falling for her close friend, Emily, who is also a lawyer. As their feelings deepen, they must navigate societal expectations, their professional lives, and the potential impact on their existing relationships.
Critical Reception
Understanding Bliss was a modest television film that garnered some attention for its sensitive portrayal of a same-sex relationship at a time when such topics were less frequently explored on mainstream television. While not a critical darling, it was generally seen as a well-intentioned and competently made drama that aimed to bring LGBTQ+ themes to a wider audience. Audience reception was mixed, with some appreciating the subject matter and others finding the execution to be somewhat formulaic.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its timely exploration of lesbian relationships.
Competent direction and performances, though some found the narrative predictable.
A thoughtful, albeit somewhat earnest, attempt at representing LGBTQ+ lives on television.
Google audience: Audience opinions are not widely available for this 1990 television film. However, it is generally considered a significant step in television's portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships during its era.
Fun Fact
Meredith Baxter, who plays Sarah, was also known for her role as Elyse Keaton in the popular NBC sitcom Family Ties around the same time.
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