Feature

The Lover (1996): cast, story & where to watch

1996 · Film · ★ 6.6

The Lover poster

Released in 1996, The Lover is a notable film directed by Olivier Smolders.

What it’s about. A bereft filmmaker asks a series of women to pose nude for his camera in this striking and moody short film by Belgium's Olivier Smolders. The silent encounters act as counterpoint to a contemplative internal monologue musing on love, loss and the subtle power-plays of aversion and desire underway in an atmosphere pervaded by an irresistible erotic gloom. Filmed in a lustrous black and white, the themes explored find their perfect compliment in the stark, fascinated, all-embracing gaze of the camera. - Robert Avila

How it landed. With an audience score of 6.6/10, The Lover has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Lover page.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch The Lover (1996)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Lover change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Is The Lover worth watching?
The Lover holds an audience score of 6.6 out of 10. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
When was The Lover released?
The Lover was released in 1996.