Of Love and Shadows (1994): Plot, Cast, Box Office, and Legacy of the Political Romance

Of Love and Shadows (1994): Here’s all you need to know about the plot, cast, box office and awards of this movie.

Of Love and Shadows
“Of Love and Shadows” movie poster.

Of Love and Shadows (1994), also known as De amor y de sombra, is a Chilean-Argentine-American romantic drama directed by Betty Kaplan. The film is an adaptation of Isabel Allende’s 1984 novel of the same name.

Plot Summary

Set in 1973 Chile under General Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship, the story follows Irene Beltrán, a magazine editor from a privileged background, and Francisco Leal, a photographer and underground resistance sympathizer.

As Francisco exposes Irene to the regime’s atrocities, their professional relationship evolves into a romantic bond, compelling Irene to confront the harsh realities of her society.

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Cast & Crew

  • Director: Betty Kaplan
  • Screenplay: Donald Freed
  • Based on: Novel by Isabel Allende
  • Music: José Nieto
  • Cinematography: Félix Monti
  • Production Companies: Miramax Films

Main Cast

  • Antonio Banderas as Francisco Leal
  • Jennifer Connelly as Irene Beltrán
  • Stefania Sandrelli as Beatriz
  • Patricio Contreras as Mario
  • Camilo Gallardo as Gustavo

Box Office

The film had a limited theatrical release, grossing approximately $5,000 domestically.

Awards & Recognition

Nominated for four awards (specific details not provided).

Received the Audience Award at the 1994 Havana Film Festival.

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Critical Reception

Rotten Tomatoes: 20% (Critics), 31% (Audience)

Filmaffinity: 4.7/10

Critics praised the performances of Banderas and Connelly but criticized the film’s pacing and adaptation.

Availability

“Of Love and Shadows” is available on DVD through platforms like Amazon and Walmart.

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