Top of Page

Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired

Released 2008
Runtime 99
Category Documentary
Language English
Director Marina Zenovich

What it’s about

Filmmaker Marina Zenovich digs into the tawdry personal life of controversial Polish director Roman Polanski (“Chinatown,” “Rosemary’s Baby”) in this thought-provoking portrait, revisiting legal entanglements in the 1977 statutory-rape case that caused him to flee the United States. But is Polanski’s dark reputation deserved?

Why we love it

Zenovich wants to rehabilitate Polanski’s less-than-admirable image, but the way she goes about it is intelligent and thorough. She speaks with screenwriter Robert Towne, actress Mia Farrow, and Polanski’s victim Samantha Geimer, a minor at the time of the case, weaving together old film and interview clips with a cogent critical assessment of the judicial process that resulted in Polanski’s bail-jumping flight to France and permanent exile from Hollywood. A thoroughly engrossing exposé.

Roman Polanski Marina Zenovich

Up Next


BECOME A MEMBER

Further explore our 3,300+ curated movie database with exclusive content and member perks.

Join now