The Night of the Iguana (1964)

In the throes of personal turmoil, ousted American minister Reverend T. Lawrence Shannon abandons his Virginia church and embarks on an unpredictable journey to Mexico, seeking both his destiny and a shred of sanity. His new life takes the form of a tour guide, shepherding a gaggle of Texan spinsters and a teenage temptress, Charlotte Goodall, through the vibrant Mexican landscape. The group is led by the stern Judith Fellowes, whose hawk-like supervision of Charlotte intensifies when she discovers her ward's interest in the ex-priest. When Charlotte's attentions to Shannon are unveiled, a jealous Miss Fellowes vows to have him dismissed. In a daring countermove, Shannon commandeers the tour bus, spiriting the group on a wild, adrenaline-soaked ride through the dense jungle to seek refuge in a secluded, ramshackle hotel owned by his old friend, the recently widowed Maxine Falk. The hotel's crumbling facade and Maxine's raw charm form a stark contrast to the refined presence of another guest, the wandering sketch artist Hanna Jelkes and her poet grandfather, Nonno. Jelkes' wisdom and her unique perspective on life and love begin to mend Shannon's shattered world, even as he battles to regain his sanity and self-respect. "The Night of the Iguana" is a tumultuous exploration of one man's struggle against his own demons, his past indiscretions, and the unexpected allure of redemption. This tale unfolds in the heart of Mexico, where the lines between morality, passion, and survival blur, challenging the protagonists to re-evaluate their lives under the watchful eyes of an ancient civilization and the relentless Mexican sun.

The Night of the Iguana is a drama movie featuring Richard Burton and directed by John Huston.

The Night of the Iguana is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.

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