Love Is the Devil Review

by Joy Wyse (jwyse AT onlineworks DOT com)
December 14th, 1998
Review: LOVE IS THE DEVIL

Starring: Derek Jacobi, Daniel Craig, Tilda Swinton, Anne Lambton Adrian Scarborough, Karl Johnson, Annabel Brooks

Directed by: John Maybury

Review by: Joy Wyse

This is definitely an Art film, but the art is missing. Although the pivotal character of the movie is the renowned artist, Francis Bacon, his estate refused to allow his work to be shown. Instead, we are presented with scenes showing the works during creation.

Derek Jacobi stars as the controversial artist, and he does an admirable job in showing the many facets of the man’s life. Daniel Craig portrays George Dyer, Bacon’s model and lover.

This is a very heavy film dealing with sadism, masochism, homosexuality, power, control, and despair. The pain in Bacon’s soul is the basis of his art. Although the acting and the production of the film well done, and the subject is well represented, it is not recommended for the general public. Perhaps this is why the release date kept being postponed, week after week. Finally, it is in theaters, but only for a limited run.
I have no desire to ever see this movie again. I give it a C-.

SEE YOU AT THE MOVIES.

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