Turn of the Century
Turn of the Century

Movie spotlight

Turn of the Century

1999
Movie
90 min
English

Filmmaker, illustrator and musician Dame Darcy's weekly television collaboration with Blessed Elysium's Lisa Hammer aired on New York's Public Access from 1996-1999, presenting original drama and comedy in a German Expressionist style, utilizing New York underground personalities including Jennifer Nixon (aka Queen Itchie), Peter Moran, Bliss Blood, Banjo Pete, Miller Duvall, Secretary Jenny, Cynthia Mitchell, Patrick O'Clock (aka Patrick Hambrecht), Jasper McVain, Daisy Miller, Li'l Sweetie, and Countessa Cinorre, as well as celebrity guest stars Thurston Moore, Courtney Love and Tiny Tim.

Insights

IMDb5.7/10
Director: David AnspaughGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

Set in 1911, the film follows the intertwined lives of a wealthy businessman and his younger wife, and the struggles they face with societal expectations and personal desires. The story explores themes of love, betrayal, and the challenges of maintaining a facade in a time of great social change. As secrets unravel, the characters are forced to confront their true feelings and the consequences of their actions. The narrative culminates in a poignant reflection on choices made and paths not taken.

Critical Reception

Turn of the Century received a mixed to positive reception from critics, with many praising its performances, particularly Anjelica Huston's, and its evocative portrayal of the historical period. However, some reviewers found the plot to be somewhat predictable and the pacing occasionally uneven. Audiences generally responded favorably to the romantic drama elements and the film's historical setting.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its strong lead performances, especially Anjelica Huston.

  • Appreciated for its faithful depiction of early 20th-century societal norms and aesthetics.

  • Some found the narrative to be a bit conventional for a period drama.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this film, making a specific summary difficult. However, those that are available suggest an appreciation for the period setting and the emotional depth of the central relationships.

Fun Fact

The film was originally developed as a television movie before being released theatrically.

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