The Sandpiper (1965)

At the heart of the wild, windswept beauty of Big Sur, California, resides free-spirited artist Laura Reynolds (Dame Elizabeth Taylor). Living a life untamed by societal norms, she shares a secluded beach-side cabin with her illegitimate nine-year-old son, Danny (Morgan Mason), whom she educates herself, instilling in him her unique values and perspectives. However, this unorthodox lifestyle leads to legal turbulence when Danny's hunting endeavor ensnares him in trouble with the law. The court mandates that he be sent to San Simeon, a Christian school in Monterey, California, much to Laura's dismay. Navigating the labyrinth of the school's administration is Dr. Reverend Edward Hewitt (Richard Burton), the school's headmaster, who is also an Episcopalian Priest. After twenty-one years of wedded life to his devoted wife Claire (Eva Marie Saint), Edward is more engrossed in fundraising for a new chapel than his responsibilities as an educator or Priest. Initially, he perceives Laura as a morally wayward individual with no redeeming qualities. However, as he tries to assure Laura that San Simeon is not the oppressive institution she fears, an unexpected bond begins to form between them. As the connection between Laura and Edward deepens, they find themselves entangled in a forbidden love affair. This passionate entanglement forces them to confront their own beliefs, revealing that they are more aligned than they initially thought. Amidst this emotional whirlwind, they must also question their desires for a life beyond their existing circumstances. This poignant tale, set against the backdrop of the rugged California coastline, explores the complexities of love, freedom, and the courage it takes to defy societal expectations.

The Sandpiper is a drama movie featuring Elizabeth Taylor and directed by Vincente Minnelli.

The Sandpiper is currently streaming on TCM.

It is also possible to buy The Sandpiper on Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.