Movie spotlight
Burning Desire
Oshichi (Setsuko Ogawa), the daughter of a green grocer, is only seventeen years old but is known as one of the most beautiful girls in Edo. She is betrothed to Sakubei (Tatsuya Hamaguchi) but does not love him. One day, the whole city is flooded by one of the worst rain storm in its history. Oshichi, and her parents are given shelter at a temple where she meets Kichisaburo (Ryuji Mori), a young priest. It is love at first sight for both of them. The storm finally abates. Oshichi's parents decide to return to their home on the following day. That night, Oshichi gladly gives herself to Kichisaburo but they are found by her mother who warns them never to divulge their secret. Learning that her plan to move up the date of her marriage to the rich pawnbroker's son, Oshichi feels that she can never be united with Kichisaburo unless she takes things into her own hands.
Insights
Plot Summary
A struggling, bohemian sculptor in Los Angeles finds himself caught between his free-spirited girlfriend and a wealthy, conservative woman who desires a more traditional relationship. As the two women vie for his attention, the sculptor grapples with his artistic ambitions, personal desires, and the societal expectations placed upon him. The film explores themes of love, commitment, and the complexities of modern relationships.
Critical Reception
Paul Mazursky's 'Burning Desire' was generally well-received by critics, who praised its witty dialogue, nuanced performances, and insightful exploration of relationship dynamics. While not a box office smash, it garnered a dedicated following for its relatable portrayal of mid-life angst and romantic entanglements.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its sharp, often humorous, screenplay that tackles complex emotional territory.
Donald Sutherland's performance as the conflicted artist was highlighted as a significant strength.
The film's ability to balance comedy with moments of genuine pathos resonated with many reviewers.
Google audience: Audience reviews frequently commend the film for its clever writing and the authentic portrayal of relationship struggles. Viewers often appreciate the humor and the thought-provoking nature of the plot, with many finding the characters and their dilemmas relatable.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. Donald Sutherland received a nomination for the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
Fun Fact
The film's setting in the vibrant, artistic community of 1970s Los Angeles was crucial to its atmosphere, with many scenes shot on location to capture the era's bohemian spirit.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources