Love and Human Remains: A Cinematic Adaptation of Brad Fraser's Play
Released in 1994, Love and Human Remains is a poignant Canadian film that delves into the complexities of desire, identity, and urban isolation. Directed by the acclaimed Denys Arcand, the movie serves as a cinematic translation of Brad Fraser's provocative stage play, Unidentified Human Remains and the True Nature of Love. The film captures a raw, atmospheric look at human connection against a backdrop of danger.
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Plot and Themes
The narrative closely mirrors the original play, centering on the lives of two roommates in Edmonton: a gay man and a heterosexual woman. As the woman engages in sexual experimentation with a lesbian, both protagonists navigate the challenging search for love and sexual gratification. This personal quest for intimacy unfolds while the city is gripped by the terror of an active serial killer, creating a stark contrast between the vulnerability of love and the brutality of violence.
Setting the Scene: Montreal vs. Edmonton
Although the story is explicitly set in Edmonton, Alberta, the film was actually shot on location in Montreal, Quebec. To maintain the authenticity of the Edmonton setting, the production utilized specific dialogue, props, and background footage to ground the story in its intended locale.
Local References and Easter Eggs
- Culinary Landmarks: The dialogue mentions "Rosebowl pizza," referring to a well-known Edmonton restaurant and bar.
- Media Cues: A TV news reporter begins to sign off from "CFR-," a nod to CFRN, the CTV affiliate station in Edmonton, though the full name is cut off by a remote control.
- Nightlife: The mention of "chicken night at Flash" refers to Flashback, a former gay bar in Edmonton.
- Local Press and Sports: The film features a "Sun" newspaper (referencing the Edmonton Sun) and CBC-TV footage of an Edmonton Eskimos Canadian Football League game.
Critical Reception and Availability
The film earned significant recognition within the Canadian film industry. Brad Fraser received a Genie Award (the premier award for Canadian cinema at the time) for his adapted screenplay. Additionally, the performances of Mia Kirshner, Joanne Vannicola, and Matthew Ferguson earned them acting nominations.
For years, the film remained difficult to find, but it eventually became available to wider audiences. In 2011, Sony Pictures Classics released it on Region 1 DVD via their MOD (Manufacture on Demand) service. It is also available in the UK as a region-free PAL DVD issued by Arrow Films.
Key Facts
- Director: Denys Arcand
- Writer: Brad Fraser (based on his own stage play)
- Release Date: July 22, 1994 (UK)
- Runtime: 100 minutes
- Origin: Canada
- Major Award: Genie Award for adapted screenplay
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cast | Thomas Gibson, Ruth Marshall, Cameron Bancroft, Mia Kirshner, Joanne Vannicola, Matthew Ferguson, Rick Roberts |
| Production Team | Pierre Latour (Producer), Paul Sarossy (Cinematography), Alain Baril (Editor), John McCarthy (Music) |
| Distribution | Sony Pictures Classics |
| Language | English |
Frequently Asked Questions
What play is the movie based on?
The film is based on the stage play Unidentified Human Remains and the True Nature of Love written by Brad Fraser.
Where was the movie filmed?
While the story is set in Edmonton, Alberta, the movie was actually filmed on location in Montreal, Quebec.
Did the film win any awards?
Yes, Brad Fraser won a Genie Award for the adapted screenplay.
Who are the lead actors in the film?
The film stars Thomas Gibson, Ruth Marshall, Cameron Bancroft, Mia Kirshner, Joanne Vannicola, Matthew Ferguson, and Rick Roberts.
How can I watch the film today?
The film is available on Region 1 DVD through Sony Pictures Classics' MOD service and on a region-free PAL DVD from Arrow Films in the UK.