Review of M. Butterfly (1993) by Ceph J — 06 Jul 2011
An unlikely love story between an ignorant French accountant diplomat and a Chinese transvestite who sings the opera "Madama Butterfly." We believe when Jeremy Irons is mesmerized during the Opera performance but we can't believe he doesn't know the true identity of his lover over time and falls for the lie that she's pregnant. However, you have to believe this is based on a true story and the politics of China in the 60s is interesting.
John Lone is not convincing enough as the trans and the actor underplays the role so that you wonder, what's there to love? Irons is better but I wish the movie expanded on his obvious unhappiness which leads him into this fabrication. The trial in Paris is too brief so that the climax is not sufficient. I also can't believe that prisoners would stand still for his silly performance. Besides Irons, you are left to admire Cronenberg's technical directiion and the cultural differences with the French diplomats or "imperialists." An interesting story that should have been more captivating.
This review of M. Butterfly (1993) was written by Ceph J on 06 Jul 2011.
M. Butterfly has generally received positive reviews.
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