Priest of Love

Priest of Love is a 1981 biographical drama film that chronicles the life, struggles, and triumphs of D.H. Lawrence, a profoundly influential English writer and poet who specialized in exploring human emotions and relationships intrically. Rooted in noteworthy historical facts, the film casts an introspective light on Lawrence's life, his battles with censorship over his controversial works, and his journey around the world in search of a place where he could write freely.

The movie boasts a stunning performance by the talented veteran actor, Sir Ian McKellen, who manifests D.H. Lawrence with a remarkable sense of believability and passion. This portrayal humanizes the legend and perfectly captures the emotional complexity of the character. He skilfully balances the inner turmoil Lawrence experiences due to his opposing feelings of anger and passion, as well as the societal constraints and pressure he suffers due to the explicit and personal nature of his writing.

Janet Suzman plays an equally crucial role as Frieda, Lawrence's wife. Suzman vividly encapsulates the role of the open-minded, determined, and supportive spouse. Ava Gardner makes a striking guest appearance as Mabel Dodge Luhan, an American patron of the arts who provided the suffering artist with temporary sanctuary. The diversity of the characters in the film provides a rich backdrop against which Lawrence's life and adventures play out.

The story commences in England during the First World War, a volatile time in history where Lawrence's works were seen as scandalous and undesirable. In face of harsh criticism and censorship, Lawrence and his German wife, Frieda, are forced to leave their home country and embark on an odyssey in search of a haven where they wouldn't be persecuted. Their journey across different cultures and landscapes, spanning from the United States to Mexico, and eventually to Italy, paints a vivid picture of the social and artistic climates of the time.

The film portrays Lawrence not just as a writer, but also a wanderer and a nonconformist. One critical plot point focuses on Lawrence's bout with tuberculosis, a medical condition forcing him to lead a nomadic life, weaving between high-altitude regions in search of health and peace. Amidst all the chaos and struggle, the narrative delicately explores the essential themes that dominate Lawrence's literature - love, sex, and the imperfect yet profound beauty of human relationships.

The film captures the era's stark social contrasts and vividly depicts the life of an artist in pursuit of freedom and artistic integrity. The audience gets a glimpse of the charisma that helped Lawrence survive in worlds far removed from his own, his stoic resilience in the face of adversity, and his undying dedication to his art.

Directed by Christopher Miles and based on a biography by Harry T. Moore, "Priest of Love" stands as an affectionate portrayal of a man who was in many ways ahead of his time. The movie beautifully renders the settings in which the narrative unfolds, from the industrial heart of England to pristine beaches of Mexico, creating an immersive experience for viewers. Alex Phillips’ cinematography provides a vibrant backdrop, capturing the locales' essence and reflecting the different stages of Lawrence's life.

The film also emphasizes a range of social issues of the time, such as censorship, social taboos on explicit content, and the dilemmas faced by creators in toeing the line between their artistic honesty and societal expectations. "Priest of Love" is a must-watch for anyone curious about the fascinating and compelling life of D.H. Lawrence, providing invaluable insight into the experiences that molded and propelled his rise to become a monumental figure in world literature. It is as much an exploration of a man's spirit as it is a study of a tumultuous era in global history.

Lastly, the "Priest of Love" is not merely a biographical film but a tribute to the undying spirit of creativity, advocating for the freedom of expression and celebrating the relentless pursuit of absolute artistic truth. It underscores the relevance of D.H. Lawrence's life and works, making it a timeless pick for literature and history aficionados alike.