Carnal Knowledge
Seen it?1971 | 98 min | Drama, Romance, Comedy
Saturday SpecialWhy it’s a Saturday Special
It earned strong reviews (87% on Rotten Tomatoes), it drew serious awards attention and it's still drawing plenty of interest. A strong pick for the weekend.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for romantics and anyone who wants a laugh. If you loved Manhattan or The Diary of a Teenage Girl, start here. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
- The mood
- Funny with heart, romantic.
- The pace
- Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 38 min.
- What might put you off
- Made in 1971: an older pace and style.
- Audiences were cooler on it than critics.
Two lifelong friends navigate complex sexual encounters and emotional entanglements, wrestling with societal norms and personal desires.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsStrong
87% on Rotten Tomatoes
- AudiencesSolid
6.6 out of 10
- AwardsStrong
Won 1 Golden Globe: Golden Globe Awards: Best Supporting Actress – Motion Picture. Also nominated for 1 Oscar, 2 more Golden Globes and 1 WGA Award. Plus 1 other award.
- Box office & staying powerSolid
$29 million worldwide on a $5 million budget
- Buzz & cultural impactStrong
About 159K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
More like this
Manhattan
Friday Night FlickAnother critically acclaimed romantic comedy.
The Diary of a Teenage Girl Friday Night FlickAnother critically acclaimed coming-of-age romantic comedy that fewer people know today.
Unfaithful
Sunday Safe BetAnother drama, and a safe bet for a quiet night.
Shortbus
Weeknight WatchAnother romantic comedy, though it's more of a weeknight watch.
The Rules of Attraction Weeknight WatchAnother romantic comedy, though it's more of a weeknight watch.
Want more like this, picked just for you? Get my picks
Cast & crew
Directed by Mike Nichols
- Jack NicholsonJonathan
- Candice BergenSusan
- Art GarfunkelSandy
- Ann-MargretBobbie
- Rita MorenoLouise
- Cynthia O'NealCindy
- Carol KaneJennifer
- Sheri JacksonMama