A Severed Head
Antonia Lynch-Gibbon, wife of upper-crust wine dealer Martin, falls in love with her husband's best friend, noted psychiatrist Palmer Anderson. While both Palmer and Antonia would like to remain in Martin's life, he has some secrets of his own — namely, a mistress called Georgie, whom his womanizing brother also desires. All the while, Palmer's sister Honor seems to know everyone's business.
Insights
Plot Summary
Martin Lynch-Gibbon, a shy, unhappily married graduate student, finds his life increasingly complicated by the eccentric and manipulative women in his circle. After his father's death, Martin inherits a large country estate and becomes entangled in a bizarre web of sexual relationships involving his wife, his mistress, his brother-in-law's wife, and a mysterious, psychic Aunt Honor. The film follows his descent into a surreal and darkly comic world as he navigates these relationships, leading to unexpected and often absurd consequences.
Critical Reception
A Severed Head received mixed reviews upon its release, with many critics finding the film to be an uneven adaptation of Iris Murdoch's novel. While some praised its ambitious themes and performances, others criticized its convoluted plot and sensationalist elements. Audience reception was similarly divided, with some appreciating its unconventional narrative and others finding it confusing or gratuitous.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its attempts to explore complex psychological and sexual themes.
- Criticized for a plot that could be seen as confusing or overly reliant on shock value.
- Noted for strong performances from its ensemble cast, particularly Claire Bloom and Denholm Elliott.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for "A Severed Head" is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the 1961 novel of the same name by Nobel Prize laureate Iris Murdoch.
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