The Price of Desire

The Price of Desire, released in 2015, is an emotionally evocative drama that serves as an homage to one of the world’s most iconic, yet often overlooked, contributors to modern architecture. This Irish-Belgian production, directed by Mary McGuckian, draws viewers into the life and creative universe of Irish architect and designer, Eileen Gray.

The central character, Eileen Gray, is impressively brought to life by Irish actress Orla Brady. Famously known for her profound fascination with modernist and art deco design, Gray eventually became one of the pioneering virtuosos of 20th-century architectural design and modern thought. However, her pivotal role in the revolutions that changed traditional perceptions and styles of design was overshadowed and often unacknowledged. The Price of Desire eloquently explores the obdurate asperities that she, as a woman, had to confront in a predominantly male-driven discipline.

Alongside Brady’s poignant performance is a memorable ensemble that includes Vincent Perez, Francesco Scianna, and British actress Alanis Morissette. Perez embodies Le Corbusier, one of Gray's contemporaries and arguably her largest competitor and critic. Scianna, playing Gray’s lover, infuses tenderness and depth into his role. Morissette, providing a distinct intrigue to the plot, paints a compelling image of Marissa Damia, Gray's partner.

The film's pivotal narrative revolves around E.1027, the white modernist villa overlooking the seductive power of the Mediterranean Sea at Roquebrune Cap Martin in the south of France. This villa was designed and built by Eileen Gray for her and her lover to inhabit.

The Price of Desire unfolds the tale of how Le Corbusier, obsessed with the house's sheer brilliance and beset with jealousy, endeavors to secure his own legacy by tarnishing Gray's reputation. He makes it his mission to snuff out her significant contributions, marking the building with his own murals and eventually asserting unmerited authorship of the house.

The film does not shirk from exploring the multi-faceted character of Gray, showing not only her professional persistence but also her intimate relationships. The various alliances, betrayals, and power plays that were an intrinsic part of Gray's personal and professional life infuse a tangible drama into the story. Eileen’s emotional jostlings in the face of Le Corbusier’s relentless attempt to overpower her are brilliantly portrayed, which creates an intense narrative that stokes the embers of a debate that still exists in contemporary society.

In constructing the narrative, McGuckian tackles complex themes, such as the role of women in competitive fields and the struggle for recognition against the backdrop of a chauvinistic society. She adeptly draws a portrait of Gray as a meticulous, independent, and defiant aesthete whose creative genius could not be suppressed despite the challenges she faced.

The visual aesthetics of the film are striking. Shot on location, it beautifully captures the charm of E.1027 and the captivating beauty of its surroundings. The clean lines and functional simplicity of Gray's design perfectly mirror her philosophy, making the villa itself one of the film's most important characters.

The Price of Desire takes a detailed look into the history of modern architecture while reflecting on a woman's resilience in a time when gender roles and expectations sought to marginalize her achievements. The film eloquently interweaves passion, intrigue, betrayal, and perseverance, offering a stirring account of Eileen Gray's struggle, talent, and unrelenting will to remain true to her singular vision, despite the societal pressures pitted against her.

The Price of Desire is an engaging and thought-provoking cinematic experience, portraying more than just the life of Eileen Gray, but the quiet battle that continues to resonate within the fields of art, design, and architecture even today. This film is not just about architecture; it is about the very depths of human sentiment and the indefatigable spirit that pushes boundaries, regardless of the circumstances. Whether you are an enthusiast of modern architectural design or an admirer of biographical dramas, The Price of Desire is an enriching watch that brings a long-overdue spotlight to a truly remarkable woman and her impact on the landscape of modern design.