Zandalee | |
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![]() Home video release poster
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Directed by | Sam Pillsbury |
Produced by |
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Written by | Mari Kornhauser |
Starring | |
Music by | Pray for Rain |
Cinematography | Walt Lloyd |
Edited by | Michael Horton |
Production
company |
Electric Pictures
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Distributed by |
Artisan Entertainment ITC Entertainment (overseas distribution) |
Release date
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Running time
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104 minutes |
Country | United States |
Language | English |
Zandalee is a 1991 American erotic thriller/romantic tragedy which was shot entirely in New Orleans, released in 1991, starring Nicolas Cage, Judge Reinhold, Erika Anderson, Marisa Tomei, Joe Pantoliano, Viveca Lindfors, Aaron Neville, and Steve Buscemi. The film was directed by Sam Pillsbury.
Although the film played theatrically in some countries, it was released straight to video in the United States. The film steals liberally from Émile Zola's novel and play Thérèse Raquin.
Zandalee Martin is a young boutique store owner living in New Orleans who is sexually frustrated and feeling unfulfilled with her marriage to Thierry Martin, and eventually gets tangled in a passionate, sensual and torrid adulterous affair with her husband's mysterious and free spirited old friend Johnny Collins. Zandalee and Thierry's marriage has hit a snag and seems to be eroding due to his lack of passion. Zan needs to explore, while Thierry wants to withdraw, and has become more and more distant and impotent in their relationship. He used to be a poet, but now has taken over the family’s communications business after the death of his father. As time goes on, Thierry has to sell the business and become basically a (vice president) figurehead. He is emotionally adrift as his dreams give way to disillusionment.
Johnny, an artist painter by trade, has been working for Thierry's business to help support his paintings. His only religion is self-gratification. Johnny also sells and mules cocaine for a local drug dealer as another source of income for himself.
Having not seen each other in a while, the two run into each other at a bachelor's party. After the party, Thierry brings Johnny home to meet Zandalee and his grandmother Tatta (Viveca Lindfors). While talking about old times, Johnny offers to paint a portrait of Thierry at their home.