A cinematic struggle for identity and the fight to find one's own path
In short: In 1989, director Ken Russell brought D.H. Lawrence's prose to life with a film about a woman refusing to conform. Despite being rejected by Hollywood studios for being too 'uncommercial,' this drama explores the intense, often messy journey of a young woman seeking independence in a restrictive era.
Directed by Ken Russell, The Rainbow is an adaptation of D.H. Lawrence's 1915 novel. The film follows Ursula Brangwen, played by Sammi Davis, as she navigates the transition from a sheltered girl in Derbyshire to an independent woman. The narrative spans the final years of the Victorian era into the early 20th century, touching on themes of sexual awakening, social class, and the struggle for self-determination. The story begins with Ursula's childhood fascination with rainbows, illustrated by her father making her a colourful jam sandwich. Her journey involves a complex romance with her teacher, Winifred Inger, and later, a connection with a student named Anton Skrebensky.
The production was famously difficult. Russell spent years attempting to secure financing, facing rejections from major Hollywood studios and producers like David Puttnam, who reportedly found the script too much of a 'downer.' It was only after the success of Russell's film Gothic (1986) and a deal with Vestron that the project moved forward. The budget was eventually set at £2.5 million, though Vestron required a £500,000 reduction, forcing Russell to cut certain sequences and change filming locations from the Lake District to London. The film's development was bolstered by the casting of Glenda Jackson, which helped convince Vestron to provide the necessary funding. Additionally, Elton John was originally slated to portray the character Uncle Harry.
The casting process was equally complex. While Vestron pushed for established stars, the production eventually secured Glenda Jackson, whose involvement helped finalize financing. The film was shot over seven weeks across London, Oxfordshire, and the Lake District. Russell viewed the story as a timeless parable about a girl who refuses to stay within the 'comforting womb' of her family, choosing instead to face the world on her own terms. The production faced several casting hurdles, including rejections from actors like Julie Christie and Charles Dance. Production took place across seven weeks in the Lake District, Oxfordshire, and London.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: The Rainbow (1989 film)
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