“Tropic of Cancer” is a provocative and daring film adaptation of Henry Miller’s 1934 groundbreaking novel of the same name. Directed by Joseph Strick in 1970, the film is set in a raw and unflinching portrayal of the bohemian life in Paris during the 1960s.
The story follows the journey of Henry Miller, portrayed by Rip Torn, an American writer living in Paris. Henry is a passionate and uncompromising artist who revels in the city’s gritty and unfiltered life experiences. He navigates a world filled with eccentric and colorful characters, fellow expatriates, and artists who challenge societal norms and embrace a hedonistic lifestyle.
As Henry explores Paris’s vibrant and decadent underground culture, he encounters a series of intense relationships, including his passionate affair with the enigmatic Mona (played by Ellen Burstyn). Their tumultuous and passionate love affair is at the heart of the narrative, reflecting the novel’s exploration of love, desire, and self-discovery.
“Tropic of Cancer” delves into the complexities of art, sexuality, and personal freedom. The film does not shy away from depicting the explicit and controversial aspects of Miller’s work, making it a bold and unapologetic cinematic experience.
Joseph Strick’s direction captures Paris’s gritty beauty and its inhabitants’ rebellious spirit. Rip Torn delivers a fearless performance as Henry Miller, embodying the character’s relentless pursuit of personal and artistic freedom.
Throughout the film, viewers are immersed in Henry Miller’s world, where passion and creativity collide with societal conventions and moral boundaries. “Tropic of Cancer” is a thought-provoking and sensual exploration of a writer’s quest for authenticity and meaning in a world on the brink of transformation.
This film remains a landmark in cinematic adaptation, capturing the essence of Henry Miller’s groundbreaking novel while pushing the boundaries of on-screen storytelling, all under the skillful direction of Joseph Strick and the bold performance of Rip Torn.
The Other Cinema 