Review of Carnal Knowledge (1971) by Jim H — 07 Dec 2011

Both sexually exploitative and immature in their own ways, two men navigate changing sexual mores during the sexual revolution.

I always thought that Closer was the meanest film ever made, certainly the meanest in Mike Nichols's canon. Now that I've seen Carnal Knowledge, I think Closer might have found its match but not its better. Exploring themes of lust and betrayal, Carnal Knowledge centers on the lives of two men, played by Jack Nicholson and Art Garfunkel, who resort to sex and sexual relationships to determine their self-worth. They wonder if the relationships they've had precluded them from other experiences, and what the film amounts to is a perception that no matter what path we choose, we're doomed to regret and a paralyzing lack of fulfillment.

Nicholson's performance is one of the best of his career; the argument between his character and Bobbie is up there with the best moments he's ever put on film. Ann-Margaret is also incredible, and Garfunkel surprised me with his lonely, awkward naivete.

The script is also superb with such great lines as Sandy claiming that a woman is doing him a favor is she sleeps with him and of course, "I'd almost marry you if you leave me.".

Overall, like Closer, this is a love story for adults -- cynical adults who know that the rules of engagement are always changing and often aggressive.