Review of Wild Orchid (1989) by David L — 30 Sep 2008

Some Minor Spoilers Here****************************.

This movie, underrated and panned by most is to me one of the most enduring erotic films of all time. judged as a fantasy, it doesn't have to go by the rules that govern normal film criticism. flawed by those standards, it will still be shown for a long time.

Carre Otis doesn't have to be a stereotypical, international lawyer. it doesn't have to have continuity or a rich script they are the characters they portray at the fantasy level, with scenes of sexual tension, unexpected happenings and the intense, colorful noisy, bizarre and sexy backdrop of Rio.

Also much of the story is in subtext and symbolism.

The silent boy character, for example, who clearly represents Wheeler( Mickey Rourke) as a child. When Wheeler decides to stop playing games, he sends the boy as his messenger to deliver the message. He has had to face a few things and get in touch with his past in order to move beyond his emotional issues.

Yes, there are some examples of bad acting and cheesy lines here and there as is the case with most movies. Yes the plot is improbable. But don't dismiss this film as just another excuse for soft-pornography. The story here is in the characters. And it is backed up well by exotic atmosphere and beautiful photography. Not to mention a great soundtrack. Recommended.