‘Crimes of Passion’: This Movie Combines Both Comedy and Erotic Thriller Genres
‘Crimes of Passion’, directed by Ken Russell in 1984, is a gripping thriller that blends eroticism with dark humour. Kathleen Turner stars as Joanna Crane, a successful fashion designer who leads a double life as China Blue, a provocative s*x worker. The film also features Anthony Perkins as Reverend Peter Shayne, a depraved preacher obsessed with saving Joanna, and John Laughlin as Bobby Grady, a disillusioned family man facing marital troubles.
The story unfolds as Bobby, working as a private investigator, discovers Joanna’s alter ego, China Blue. Despite this revelation, he keeps it secret. Meanwhile, Reverend Shayne, who oscillates between indulging in vices and preaching about sin, becomes fixated on rescuing Joanna from her “sinful” lifestyle. His obsession drives him to stalk her, driven by a twisted sense of righteousness.
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China Blue, who adopts various personas for her clients, creates elaborate backstories that cater to their fantasies, portraying herself as a vulnerable soul in need of rescue. This duality serves as an emotional shield, transforming intimate encounters into mere transactions. Unlike characters in similar narratives, Joanna doesn’t need the money from her clients, as demonstrated when she carelessly discards a $50 bill.
Reverend Shayne’s pursuit of Joanna is marked by hypocrisy and a creepy intensity, echoing figures like Claude Frollo from ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’. His relentless quest, including a comically menacing “killer di**o,” underscores his sinister nature.
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The film is not just thrilling but also humourously absurd. Bobby’s act and Reverend Shayne’s self-serious yet absurd lines contribute to a comedic edge. Turner’s portrayal of China Blue adds a witty, seductive layer that complements the film’s erotic elements.
‘Crimes of Passion’ combines a gritty visual style with a nuanced exploration of its characters’ emotional landscapes. It balances thrilling suspense with biting humour, making it a standout example of erotic thrillers with depth and wit.
–Farheen Ali
