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Boxing Helena
1993 107 min United States of America R 18+
★4.6
Drama, Romance, Thriller
Director: Jennifer Lynch
Trailers
Description
A top surgeon is besotted with a beautiful woman who once rebuffed him. Unable to come to terms with life without her, he tries to convince her that they need each other. She has other ideas, but a horrific accident leaves her at his mercy.
Budget:
$4M
US Gross:
$1.8M
Worldwide:
$1.8M
Starring
Julian Sands
Actor
Sherilyn Fenn
Actor
Bill Paxton
Actor
Awards
Razzie Awards 1994
— Worst Director
Sundance Film Festival 1993
— Grand Jury Prize (Drama)
Key opinion
Boxing Helena is a divisive, surreal psychological thriller that is widely praised for its striking visual aesthetic and Sherilyn Fenn's captivating performance. However, the film faces heavy criticism for its disjointed screenplay, uneven direction, and uncomfortable subject matter, leading to a polarized reception.
| Acting | Sherilyn Fenn's magnetic and visually striking performance as Elena is widely considered the film's strongest asset. | |
| Production | The film excels in its visual presentation, featuring vibrant color palettes, carefully curated interiors, and a distinct, dreamlike atmosphere. | |
| Score | The musical score evokes strong disagreement; some find the juxtaposition of tracks like Enigma’s 'Sadeness' to be thematic, while others find the music intrusive and ill-suited to the scenes. | |
| Screenplay | Opinions on the screenplay are divided between those who appreciate the bold, grotesque exploration of obsessive love and those who view the narrative as disjointed and pretentious. | |
| Ending | The ending creates significant friction, with some viewers finding it a logical conclusion to the madness, while others label it a disappointing and muddled failure. | |
| Direction | Jennifer Lynch’s direction is a major point of contention, with critics labeling it amateurish and worthy of a 'Golden Raspberry,' while supporters praise her daring, unconventional vision. |