Carnal Knowledge Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Two college buddies spend decades objectifying women until one becomes impotent and the other dates a hippie, proving that knowing a lot about sex doesn’t mean you know anything about love.

🍿 Carnal Knowledge: Detailed Plot Synopsis

College Days and Sexual Awakening

The film begins in the late 1940s at Amherst College, where roommates Jonathan and Sandy navigate the complexities of sexual awakening. Jonathan is portrayed as sexually aggressive and driven by physical attraction, while Sandy is more sensitive and idealistic, seeking intellectual and emotional connection. Their contrasting views shape their initial encounters with women, particularly Susan.

The Susan Triangle

Sandy develops a relationship with Susan, but Jonathan, driven by competitiveness, pursues her as well. A love triangle ensues, marked by betrayal and differing expectations of intimacy. Susan’s character becomes a focal point, illustrating the conflicting desires and social pressures of the time. This early dynamic sets the stage for the lifelong dissatisfaction that plagues both men.

Middle Age and Disillusionment

The film jumps forward in time, depicting Jonathan and Sandy in middle age, still grappling with relationship issues. Sandy, now married to Susan, finds himself bored and restless, yearning for the freedom Jonathan seems to possess. Jonathan, despite his numerous sexual conquests, remains emotionally unfulfilled and increasingly misogynistic. Their friendship continues, albeit strained by their contrasting life choices and unresolved desires.

Jonathan and Bobbie

Jonathan’s relationship with Bobbie highlights his inability to form meaningful connections. He objectifies her, demanding she conform to his ideals of female beauty and subservience. Bobbie’s growing depression and eventual breakdown underscore the devastating impact of Jonathan’s emotional abuse and the film’s commentary on the objectification of women. This storyline directly reflects the film’s cynical outlook on the ‘free love’ movement.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Jonathan (Jack Nicholson): Jonathan is a cynical and sexually aggressive man who objectifies women and struggles with intimacy throughout his life.
• Sandy (Art Garfunkel): Sandy is a more sensitive and romantic man who seeks an idealized woman but ultimately remains unfulfilled in his relationships.
• Susan (Candice Bergen): Susan is a college student caught between Jonathan and Sandy, representing the complexities of female sexuality and choice.
• Bobbie (Ann-Margret): Bobbie is a sexually alluring but emotionally vulnerable woman whose relationship with Jonathan leads to her despair and decline.
• Louise (Rita Moreno): Louise is a prostitute who caters to Jonathan’s need for validation and control in a demeaning final encounter.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Jonathan: “Boys begin life not liking girls, later they don’t change, they just get horny.” – Jonathan cynically summarizes his view on men’s evolving relationships with women.
• Bobbie: “The reason I sleep all day is because I can’t stand my life!” – Bobbie expresses her deep unhappiness and disillusionment with her life and relationship.
• Jonathan: “What life?” – Jonathan retorts callously, dismissing Bobbie’s feelings.
• Jonathan: “I want someone I can put my arms around and say, ‘Shut up, I know what I’m doing’.” – Jonathan describes his ideal woman based on the need to dominate.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $5 million
• Domestic Gross: $29.3 million
• Worldwide Gross: $29.3 million

💥 Carnal Knowledge Reviews

Personal Review

Wow, ‘Carnal Knowledge’ is a heavy movie! I went in expecting something a little edgy, but it hit me way harder. Jack Nicholson’s character is so frustrating; you want to shake him and tell him to grow up. Ann-Margret’s performance is heartbreaking – you really feel her pain. The scene where Jonathan shows the slide show of all his ‘conquests’ was particularly disturbing. It really highlighted the emptiness of his approach to relationships. It’s not a fun watch, but it’s definitely thought-provoking and made me think about how society views relationships. Definitely recommend it, but be prepared for a bit of a downer. This is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of classic 1970s dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in films exploring complex relationship dynamics”
  • “Those interested in films with strong performances by Jack Nicholson and Ann-Margret”
  • “Adults interested in films that tackle mature themes and controversial topics”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Explicit sexual content”
  • “Nudity”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Misogynistic themes”
  • “Drug use”
  • “Discussions of suicide”
  • “Emotional abuse”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Nichols directs Feiffer’s script with precision, creating a compelling character study. Nicholson delivers a career-defining performance as a man adrift in his desires. Bergen and Ann-Margret provide depth, portraying women caught in the crossfire. The film’s frankness about sex and relationships remains impactful.
• The New York Times: “A bold and controversial film for its time, ‘Carnal Knowledge’ offers a stark look at the sexual revolution. While some aspects may feel dated, the performances are timeless. The film’s exploration of male anxieties and the objectification of women is still relevant.
• RogerEbert.com: “While ‘Carnal Knowledge’ isn’t Nichols’ best, it’s an interesting document of its era. The script is smart, and the acting is strong. Though the film is thought-provoking, its cold and cynical tone can make it a difficult viewing experience, offering little redemption.

Audience Reactions

Ann-Margret’s raw and vulnerable performance as Bobbie is unforgettable and resonates with viewers.: The performances, particularly by Nicholson and Ann-Margret, are consistently praised as powerful and nuanced.

The film’s unflinching look at male sexual attitudes and societal expectations sparks debate and discussion.: Many find the film to be a relevant social commentary, even decades later, on the complexities of relationships.

Overall Consensus: A thought-provoking and often bleak exploration of love, sex, and the evolving attitudes of men and women, with outstanding performances but a potentially off-putting cynical tone.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was controversial upon release for its frank depiction of sexuality, leading to obscenity charges in some areas.”
• “Candice Bergen’s role as Susan was a departure from her earlier, more wholesome image.”
• “Mike Nichols directed the film with a deliberate style that emphasized character-driven drama over explicit scenes.”
• “Jules Feiffer, the screenwriter, was a renowned cartoonist known for his satirical observations on modern relationships.”

🖥️ How to Watch Carnal Knowledge?

Carnal Knowledge is available to rent or purchase on various platforms, including Prime Video and Apple TV. Check your local listings for television airings or streaming availability on subscription services.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Carnal Knowledge, you might like these similar films:

• Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966): Explores the dark side of relationships with sharp dialogue and intense performances.
• Closer (2004): A modern drama dissecting the complexities and betrayals in modern relationships.
• The Graduate (1967): Directed by Mike Nichols, it shares a similar exploration of societal expectations and disillusionment.
• Last Tango in Paris (1972): Explores the themes of sexuality and emotional detachment, pushing boundaries like Carnal Knowledge.

🛒 Carnal Knowledge Related Products

• Jack Nicholson: The Early Years [Blu-ray]: Explore the early career of Jack Nicholson with this Blu-ray collection, featuring a range of his classic performances. See his talent bloom in these formative roles. A must-have for any Nicholson fan or film buff!
• Ann-Margret: My Story [Autobiography]: Dive into the life of Ann-Margret, from her humble beginnings to her rise as a Hollywood icon. Hear her personal story and experiences that shaped her performance in ‘Carnal Knowledge’.
• Retro 70s Style Wall Art Print: Embrace the 1970s with this wall art print. Featuring bold colors, it captures the decade’s vibes. Transform your living area with style.
• Mike Nichols: A Life by Mark Harris: This biography offers an intimate look into the life and career of Mike Nichols, the acclaimed director of ‘Carnal Knowledge’. Discover his directorial style and inspiration for the movie.

🎧 Soundtrack

Carnal Knowledge features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Moonlight Serenade” – performed by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Candice Bergen On Working With Jack Nicholson

Ever wondered what it was like to work with Jack Nicholson back in the day? Candice Bergen spills the tea in this quick interview, and honestly, her stories make me want to watch the movie all over again!

“I don’t feel anything anymore” (Carnal Knowledge)

This scene is seriously intense! It perfectly captures the film’s exploration of detachment and emotional emptiness. Check it out, you’ll instantly get what ‘Carnal Knowledge’ is all about.

First films with swearing – using “f”word and “c” word in movie history (1963-1976)

Did you know ‘Carnal Knowledge’ was one of the first films to use THAT word? This video breaks down the history of swearing in movies, and it’s actually super interesting to see how far we’ve come (or haven’t!).

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