Here’s a summary of the 1997 film “Lolita,” its star cast, information on bold scenes, and availability.
Movie Summary
Adrian Lyne’s 1997 film “Lolita” is the second screen adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov’s controversial 1955 novel of the same name. The story follows Humbert Humbert, a middle-aged, European English literature professor, who travels to the United States. He becomes infatuated with adolescent girls, whom he refers to as “nymphets,” a fascination stemming from a tragic childhood love.
Upon renting a room from the widow Charlotte Haze, Humbert becomes immediately obsessed with her 14-year-old daughter, Dolores, whom he nicknames “Lolita.” To remain close to Lolita, he marries her mother, Charlotte, despite disliking her. When Charlotte discovers Humbert’s secret desires through his diary, she is distraught and subsequently dies in a tragic accident. This event leaves Humbert as Lolita’s legal guardian, enabling him to pursue a sexual relationship with her.
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The film then depicts Humbert and Lolita’s cross-country travels, where he meticulously conceals the true nature of their relationship. As their journey progresses, Lolita’s growing desire for independence and realization of their illicit bond create increasing tension. Another character, the manipulative playwright Clare Quilty, emerges as a rival for Lolita’s attention. Ultimately, Lolita escapes with Quilty, and Humbert embarks on a desperate search for her.
Years later, a pregnant and married Lolita contacts Humbert for money. She reveals the extent of Quilty’s exploitation of young girls, leading Humbert to confront and murder Quilty. Humbert is arrested and dies in prison, while Lolita tragically dies in childbirth shortly after. The film portrays a dark and tragic narrative of obsession, manipulation, and the devastating loss of innocence.
Star Cast
- Jeremy Irons as Humbert Humbert
- Dominique Swain as Dolores “Lolita” Haze
- Melanie Griffith as Charlotte Haze
- Frank Langella as Clare Quilty
- Suzanne Shepherd as Miss Pratt
- Keith Reddin as Reverend Rigger
- Erin J. Dean as Mona
- Joan Glover as Miss LaBone
Bold Scenes
“Lolita” is known for its explicit and controversial content, particularly the depiction of the sexual relationship between the adult Humbert Humbert and the underage Dolores Haze. The film includes scenes where their intimacy is portrayed, reflecting the transgressive nature of the novel’s subject matter.
The controversy around the film stemmed from its willingness to directly portray the forbidden sexual acts at the heart of the story, though it generally avoids gratuitous or exploitative visuals, focusing instead on the psychological and emotional complexity of the characters.
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Availability
“Lolita” (1997) has varying availability for streaming and purchase:
- Apple TV: The movie is listed on Apple TV for purchase or rent in some regions.
- Prime Video: It has been listed on Prime Video for purchase or rent in some territories.
- YouTube: The film is available for rent or purchase on YouTube.
- Other Platforms: Moviefone indicates it may be available on platforms like Kanopy, Google Play Movies, BFI Player Amazon Channel, Tubi TV, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Hoopla, and Pluto TV, but availability on these platforms can be region-specific.