Wild Nights with Emily
Wild Nights with Emily

Movie spotlight

Wild Nights with Emily

2018
Movie
84 min
English

Explore Emily Dickinson's vivacious, irreverent side that was covered up for years — most notably her lifelong romantic relationship with another woman.

Insights

IMDb6.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes70%
Metacritic60
Google Users71%
Director: Madeleine OlnekGenres: Biography, Comedy, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

This film offers a whimsical and largely untold story of American poet Emily Dickinson's secret, passionate love affair with fellow poet Susan Huntington Gilbert. It imagines a vibrant, hidden life for Dickinson, separate from her public image as a reclusive spinster. Through humorous and heartfelt moments, the movie explores their decades-long relationship and Dickinson's struggles within her restrictive society.

Critical Reception

Wild Nights with Emily received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its unique perspective on Emily Dickinson's life and its charming, quirky tone. The performances, particularly Molly Shannon's portrayal of Dickinson, were widely acclaimed for their humor and nuance. Some reviewers noted that while the film is entertaining and insightful, it prioritizes a lighthearted approach over strict historical accuracy.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its charming and humorous depiction of Emily Dickinson's private life and secret romance.

  • Molly Shannon's performance as Dickinson was highlighted as a standout, bringing depth and wit to the role.

  • Appreciated for offering a fresh, alternative perspective on the iconic poet, even if not strictly factual.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally found the film to be a delightful and funny take on Emily Dickinson's life, particularly enjoying the exploration of her relationship with Susan Huntington Gilbert and Molly Shannon's performance. Some viewers appreciated the lighthearted and unconventional approach to the poet's biography.

Fun Fact

Director Madeleine Olnek stated that she was inspired to make the film after discovering letters between Emily Dickinson and Susan Huntington Gilbert that suggested a romantic relationship, challenging the traditional view of Dickinson as purely a recluse.

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