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Gentlemen's Relish

Gentlemen's Relish (2001)

Jan 01, 2001 1h 30m Comedy Romance

The career of the once successful classical portraitist, Kingdom Swann, has hit bad times. When a leading gallery rejects his work, he seems at the point of giving up. It is only the support of his housekeeper, Violet Askey, that keeps him going and it is she who encourages him to switch to photography. Soon Swann has developed a healthy (and respectable) business with portraits of naked women in classical and exotic settings. However, the nature of Swann's new work is open to misinterpretation and he finds himself at the centre of a scandal involving the misuse of his pictures by a SOHO pornographer, and the focus of a campaign by suffragettes against the expoitation of women. At the same time, he loses the support of the loyal Violet, who leaps to the wrong conclusion about Swann's relationship with one of his models. When Violet then becomes involved in the suffragette and amti-pornography movements, it seems all may be lost for Swann - both professionally...and personally.

Directed by Douglas Mackinnon

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Douglas Mackinnon
Writer
  • David Nobbs
  • Miles Gibson
  • Martn Auty

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Thematic Analysis

Gentlemen's Relish represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Douglas Mackinnon brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2001, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Gentlemen's Relish took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 116 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 2001, when this film is released:
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Gentlemen's Relish shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Science of Sleep, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Gentlemen's Relish subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Rules of the Game and The Lovers on the Bridge explore similar territory, Gentlemen's Relish stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: January 1, 2001
  • Runtime: 1h 30m