

Impure Thoughts
Four male friends are reunited after not being in contact with each other for several years. However, the meeting place is Purgatory, the afterlife state of limbo between heaven and hell. In Purgatory, these friends reflect on their pasts while they were living. They especially focus on their years in Catholic School and their coming of age. This film talks a lot about sexual issues. One of the characters is an 18-year old sent to Vietnam who dies without ever losing his virginity and there is a middle-aged, homosexual alcoholic playwright who has still has problems dealing with his identity.
Insights
Plot Summary
A shy, repressed accountant, Richard, is plagued by sexually explicit daydreams and violent fantasies. After his oppressive mother's death, he inherits a mansion and decides to indulge his darkest desires. However, his attempts to live out his fantasies lead to increasingly bizarre and dangerous situations, blurring the lines between his imagination and reality.
Critical Reception
Impure Thoughts is a cult film known for its darkly comedic and surreal exploration of repressed sexuality and violent urges. While its unique blend of horror and humor garnered a niche following, it received mixed to negative reviews from mainstream critics upon its release, with many finding its tone and subject matter jarring.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its bold and original premise exploring taboo themes.
- Criticized for its uneven tone and sometimes shocking content.
- Appreciated by some for its cult status and unique blend of dark comedy and horror.
Google audience: Audience reception is largely divided, with some finding the film a disturbing yet compelling exploration of the id, while others are put off by its graphic content and unconventional narrative.
Fun Fact
The film's director, Michael Shackleton, also wrote the screenplay and was inspired by his own experiences with repressed feelings and societal pressures.
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