Love on the Margins: Underrated 70s, 80s & 90s Gems Where Passion Gets Real
A Valentine’s journey through unconventional stories exploring the diversity of human experiences and the universal longing for connection. Through the themes of control and manipulation, abuse, jealousy, and possessiveness as well as betrayal and conflict, our selection of narratives proves that love can exist in all sorts of forms, anywhere and everywhere.
On her very first Love Letter, Martamour will unpack romantic relationships that exist outside of mainstream societal norms or conventions and navigate through various complexities and barriers. Yet, they can be incredibly powerful and transformative.
1
MAUVAIS SANG (1986)
LEOS CARAX
A heady mix of romance, crime, and surrealism, painted in bold colours against a backdrop of dystopian Paris. It follows the story of Alex, a young man drawn into a dangerous heist which involves stealing a serum that can prolong human life but comes with a deadly consequence: the inability to experience love without risking death.
I played the clip of Alex dance-running down the city street to David Bowie’s ‘Modern Love’ million times, and I may as well start again now.
2
BETTY BLUE (1986)
JEAN-JACQUES BEINEIX
Powerful and moving, yet disturbing and exploitative. A mesmerizing journey through love's ecstasy and agony. Beneix explores the tumultuous journey of love and mental instability through the passionate and unpredictable Betty as she becomes entangled in a whirlwind romance with Zorg.
I empathised with Betty til the very end, but it was Zorg that stole my heart and touched me with his tenderness and care.
3
BITTER MOON (1992)
ROMAN POLANSKI
On a luxurious cruise, naive writer Nigel becomes enthralled by the twisted tales of Oscar, who recounts his volatile and destructive relationship with enigmatic Mimi. The film delves into the dark depths of obsession, desire, and manipulation.
Expect eroticism, violence, psychological torment, and a captivating narrative. I could have listened to charming Oscar for hours and of course, I became obsessed with Mimi’s character.
4
DAMAGE (1992)
LOUIS MALLE
Stephen falls for his son's alluring fiancée Anna, igniting a passionate and destructive affair. Morality crumbles and obsession consumes him. Despite the explicit sensuality and exploration of taboo subjects, the film's true power lies in its study of betrayals and the devastating consequences of forbidden passion.
Binoche’s performance is outstanding and so it’s her looks, that good that I almost ended up with the same haircut.
5
LOVE STORY (1970)
ARTHUR HILLER
A landmark of classic Hollywood romance. This cult classic follows the passionate yet tragic love affair between Oliver Barrett IV and Jennifer Cavilleri. From moments of joy and tenderness to heart-wrenching scenes of sorrow, this movie will take on an emotional rollercoaster so be prepared.
The “Love means never having to say you are sorry” scene is one of my ultimate favourites. And I cry. Every - single - time.
curated by Martamour 🎀
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