holySmoke

Ruth, a young Australian woman, becomes involved with a charismatic guru in India. Her concerned mother hires P.J. Waters, a charismatic 'de-programmer,' to bring Ruth back home and extricate her from the cult. However, the intense psychological battle between Ruth and P.J. leads to unexpected emotional complexities and a blurring of lines as they confront each other's beliefs and desires.

Holy Smoke received a mixed to positive reception from critics. While many praised the performances of Kate Winslet and Harvey Keitel, and Jane Campion's distinctive direction, some found the film's narrative and themes challenging or unsettling. Audiences were divided, with some appreciating its exploration of faith, manipulation, and sexual awakening, while others were put off by its provocative subject matter and ambiguous ending.

• Praised for powerful performances by Winslet and Keitel.
• Acclaimed for Jane Campion's bold and uncompromising direction.
• Noted for its challenging exploration of cults, faith, and sexuality.

Google audience: Google users generally found the film to be a thought-provoking and intense experience, appreciating the strong acting. Some viewers found the subject matter difficult and the conclusion ambiguous, but many agreed it was a memorable and artistically significant film.

Kate Winslet won the Best Actress award at the Evening Standard British Film Awards. The film also received nominations for Golden Globe Awards and Venice Film Festival awards.

Kate Winslet famously sent a handwritten letter to Jane Campion expressing her desire to work with her on 'Holy Smoke,' which helped secure her the role.