Desert Hearts is a captivating story that has won the hearts of many readers and viewers alike. Originally a novel titled “Desert of the Heart” by Jane Rule, it was adapted into a film in 1985, directed by Donna Deitch.
This article will provide an in-depth exploration of the book and movie, highlighting key aspects such as the characters, quotes, and soundtrack, as well as offering a detailed parent guide and other relevant information.
So let’s dive into the world of Desert Hearts and uncover the magic behind this incredible story.
Book Summary: Desert of the Heart (1964)
“Desert of the Heart” is a novel written by Jane Rule, published in 1964.
The story is set in the late 1950s in Reno, Nevada, and revolves around the lives of two women: Evelyn Hall, an English professor who is getting a divorce, and Ann Childs, a young casino worker with a free spirit.
Throughout the novel, the two characters develop a deep connection despite their differences, and their love story unfolds in the midst of the harsh desert landscape.
As Evelyn and Ann navigate their feelings for one another, they must also confront the societal norms and expectations of the time. The novel explores themes of love, identity, self-discovery, and the search for happiness.
“Desert of the Heart” has been praised for its portrayal of a lesbian relationship and its thoughtful exploration of the human experience.
Movie Summary: Desert Hearts (1985)
The film adaptation of “Desert of the Heart,” titled “Desert Hearts,” was released in 1985 and directed by Donna Deitch.
The movie features Helen Shaver as Evelyn Hall and Patricia Charbonneau as Ann Childs. The film closely follows the storyline of the novel, although some changes were made to accommodate a more cinematic experience.
Set in 1959, “Desert Hearts” captures the essence of the novel, showcasing the love story between Evelyn and Ann as they navigate the challenges of their time. The movie was groundbreaking in its portrayal of a lesbian romance and has since become a cult classic within the LGBTQ+ community.
It has been praised for its powerful performances, stunning visuals, and the captivating love story at its center.
Parent Guide: What to expect and age recommendation
“Desert Hearts” is a film that explores themes of love, self-discovery, and societal expectations. As a parent, it is essential to understand that this movie features a lesbian romance and contains scenes of intimacy between the two main characters. The film is rated R, and it is recommended for mature audiences only, ideally those aged 17 and above.
Parents should approach this film with an open mind and be prepared to discuss its themes with their children if they choose to watch it together. The movie can be an excellent opportunity to engage in conversations about love, relationships, and acceptance, and to encourage understanding and empathy for others.
When and Where: Timeline and Film Locations
“Desert Hearts” takes place in 1959, a time when societal norms and expectations were vastly different from today. The film captures the essence of this era, with its costumes, set design, and overall atmosphere. The story is primarily set in Reno, Nevada, which serves as the backdrop for the unfolding romance between Evelyn and Ann.
The movie was filmed in various locations throughout Nevada, including the cities of Reno, Virginia City, and the Pyramid Lake Indian Reservation. These locations provide a stunning and authentic backdrop for the story, with the vast desert landscapes serving as a metaphor for the characters’ emotional journeys.
Who’s Who: Character Profiles
The main characters in “Desert Hearts” are Evelyn Hall and Ann Childs. Evelyn is an English professor seeking a divorce in Reno, Nevada. She is intelligent, reserved, and struggling to come to terms with her identity and desires. Ann is a young, free-spirited casino worker who is unapologetically herself. The two women form an unlikely bond that evolves into a passionate love affair.
Supporting characters in the story include Walter, Evelyn’s soon-to-be ex-husband; Frances, the owner of the ranch where Evelyn stays during her divorce proceedings; and Silver, a close friend of Ann’s. Each character adds depth and complexity to the narrative, enriching the world of Desert Hearts.
Memorable Quotes from Desert Hearts
“Desert Hearts” is filled with memorable quotes that capture the essence of the characters and their experiences.
Some of the most notable lines include:
- “Do you always wear jeans?” – Evelyn Hall
- “Only when I want to be comfortable.” – Ann Childs
- “If you want to dance, you just have to learn to follow.” – Ann Childs
- “I’m afraid I’ve led a very sheltered life.” – Evelyn Hall
- “You can’t control the wind, but you can adjust your sails.” – Frances Parker
These quotes offer a glimpse into the hearts and minds of the characters, providing insight into their thoughts and emotions as they navigate their journeys.
The Soundtrack: Robert Estrin, Terri Fricon, and Gay Jones
The soundtrack for “Desert Hearts” was composed by Robert Estrin, with contributions from Terri Fricon and Gay Jones.
The music captures the essence of the film, evoking the emotions and atmosphere of the story. The soundtrack features a mix of instrumental and vocal tracks, creating a rich and diverse audio landscape that complements the visuals and narrative of the film.
Notable tracks from the soundtrack include “Desert Hearts Theme,” “Love Theme,” and “Casino.” Each piece adds depth and emotion to the film, enhancing the cinematic experience for viewers.
Curiosities and Trivia
There are several interesting facts and trivia related to “Desert Hearts” and its creation.
Some notable tidbits include:
- Director Donna Deitch spent nearly five years raising the funds necessary to produce the film, as many investors were hesitant to support a movie focused on a lesbian romance.
- The film was initially rejected by several major film festivals before gaining recognition and acclaim at the 1986 Sundance Film Festival.
- “Desert Hearts” is considered one of the first mainstream films to feature a lesbian love scene that was not exploitative or gratuitous.
These curiosities and trivia showcase the challenges and triumphs that occurred during the making of this groundbreaking film.
Tips for Cosplay: Dress Like Desert Hearts Characters
If you’re a fan of “Desert Hearts” and want to dress like the characters, here are some tips to help you create the perfect costume:
- For Evelyn Hall: Opt for conservative, vintage clothing such as button-up blouses, knee-length skirts, and cardigans. Accessorize with a simple pearl necklace and add a pair of cat-eye glasses to complete the look.
- For Ann Childs: Embrace the free-spirited 1950s style with jeans, a fitted blouse or sweater, and a bandana tied around your neck. Add a pair of cowboy boots and a bright red lipstick to capture Ann’s bold personality.
- For other characters: Study the film and novel for inspiration, paying close attention to the clothing styles and accessories of the time.
By following these tips, you can create a fantastic and authentic “Desert Hearts” cosplay that will impress fellow fans.
Jane Rule: Biography and Works
Jane Rule (1931-2007) was a Canadian author known for her literary works that explored themes of love, identity, and societal expectations.
Born in New Jersey, Rule moved to Canada in 1956, where she would live for the rest of her life. She published her first novel, “Desert of the Heart,” in 1964, which would later become the basis for the film “Desert Hearts.”
In addition to “Desert of the Heart,” Rule authored a total of six novels, as well as numerous short stories, essays, and nonfiction works. Her writing is celebrated for its nuanced exploration of human relationships and its honest portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences.
The Ending Explained: Book versus Movie
The endings of the book and movie versions of “Desert Hearts” differ slightly, with each version offering a unique perspective on the story’s conclusion.
In the novel, the relationship between Evelyn and Ann is left more open-ended, allowing readers to imagine their own interpretation of the characters’ futures. In contrast, the film provides a more definitive resolution, with Evelyn and Ann choosing to be together despite the challenges they face.
Both endings offer a powerful and thought-provoking conclusion to the story, leaving audiences with a sense of hope and a belief in the transformative power of love.
Remake, Sequel, and Spin-off Possibilities
Given the enduring popularity and influence of “Desert Hearts,” it is natural to wonder about the potential for remakes, sequels, or spin-offs.
While there are currently no official plans for any such projects, the story’s rich characters and themes provide ample material for future adaptations or explorations.
Fans can also continue to enjoy the original book and film, as well as seek out similar works that explore similar themes and experiences.
Other Media by Donna Deitch
Donna Deitch, the director of “Desert Hearts,” has had a long and successful career in film and television.
In addition to her work on “Desert Hearts,” Deitch has directed numerous episodes of popular television series such as “ER,” “Law & Order: SVU,” and “The L Word.”
Her contributions to the world of film and television continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
Similar Media to Desert Hearts and Desert of the Heart
If you’re looking for similar media to “Desert Hearts” and “Desert of the Heart,” there are several books, films, and television shows that explore themes of love, identity, and societal expectations.
Some recommendations include:
- “Orlando” by Virginia Woolf
- “Stone Butch Blues” by Leslie Feinberg
- “Bound” (1996 film)
- “Carol” (2015 film)
- “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” (2019 film)
These works offer a diverse range of stories and perspectives, providing an opportunity for further exploration and discussion of the themes present in “Desert Hearts.”
Book Club Questions and Discussion Topics
“Desert Hearts” offers a wealth of material for book clubs and discussion groups.
Some possible questions and topics for discussion include:
- How do the characters of Evelyn and Ann challenge societal norms and expectations in their respective eras?
- What role does the desert landscape play in the story, both as a setting and as a metaphor?
- How does the portrayal of love and relationships in “Desert Hearts” differ from other contemporary works?
- What elements of the book and movie do you find most compelling or thought-provoking?
By engaging in these discussions, readers and viewers can gain a deeper understanding of the story and its themes, as well as explore their own perspectives and experiences.
Desert Hearts in Video Games
While there are no direct video game adaptations of “Desert Hearts,” there are several games that explore similar themes of love, identity, and societal expectations.
Some examples include games like “Gone Home,” “Life is Strange,” and “Night in the Woods.”
These games offer unique interactive experiences that allow players to engage with the story and characters on a deeper level, providing a new way to explore the themes present in “Desert Hearts.”
Travel Guide: Visiting Desert Hearts Filming Locations
For fans of “Desert Hearts,” visiting the film’s locations can be a thrilling and enriching experience.
Some notable locations to visit include:
- Reno, Nevada: Explore the city where much of the film takes place, including the casinos and landmarks featured in the film.
- Virginia City, Nevada: Wander the streets of this historic mining town, which offers a glimpse into the past and serves as a backdrop for several scenes in the film.
- Pyramid Lake Indian Reservation: Experience the beauty and tranquility of this stunning desert landscape, which plays a significant role in the story.
By visiting these locations, fans can immerse themselves in the world of “Desert Hearts” and gain a deeper appreciation for the film’s setting and atmosphere.
Conclusion
“Desert Hearts” remains an enduring and powerful story that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
Through its exploration of love, identity, and societal expectations, the book and film offer a thought-provoking and emotional journey that invites readers and viewers to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of “Desert Hearts,” there is much to discover and appreciate in this timeless tale.
