The Lover (1986 film)

The Lover

The Lover is a 1986 drama film directed by Valeria Sarmiento. The film is based on the novel The Lover by Marguerite Duras. It explores themes of love, sexuality, and colonialism.

Plot

The story is set in French Indochina in the late 1920s. It revolves around a young French girl who embarks on a passionate affair with a wealthy Chinese man. The relationship is complicated by the cultural and social differences between them, as well as the disapproval of their families.

Cast

• Jane March as The Young Girl
• Tony Leung Ka-fai as The Chinese Man
• Frédérique Meininger as The Mother
• Arnaud Giovaninetti as The Elder Brother
• Melvil Poupaud as The Younger Brother

Production

The film was shot on location in Vietnam, capturing the lush landscapes and the historical context of the story. The cinematography by Robert Fraisse received critical acclaim for its visual beauty.

Reception

The Lover received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its faithful adaptation of the novel and the performances of the lead actors, while others criticized it for its pacing and narrative structure. Despite this, the film has gained a cult following over the years.

Themes

The film delves into complex themes such as the power dynamics in relationships, the impact of colonialism, and the exploration of forbidden love. It also highlights the societal constraints and prejudices of the time.

See also

• Marguerite Duras
• French Indochina
• Colonialism in literature
• 1986 in film

External links

The Lover at IMDb