Heat and Dust

Directed by James Ivory, based on the novel by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, this epic historical melodrama weaves together two parallel narratives set in India: one in the 1920s and the other in the 1980s. The story follows Anne (Julie Christie), a modern-day woman who travels to India to uncover the truth about her great-aunt Olivia (Greta Scacchi), whose scandalous affair with a local Nawab (Shashi Kapoor) led to her ostracization from British colonial society. As Anne delves into Olivia’s past, she becomes increasingly fascinated by her aunt's defiance of societal norms and the passionate, forbidden love that ultimately altered her life. Anne's own journey through India mirrors Olivia's experiences, as she encounters the same exotic, intoxicating allure of the country that captivated her great-aunt. Presented in a new 4K restoration, the film beautifully captures the contrasts and connections between the two eras, exploring themes of cultural clash, forbidden love, and the enduring impact of colonialism. HEAT AND DUST is a visually stunning, evocative film that reflects the complexities of both personal and historical legacies.