- Genre
- Drama
- Year
- 1975
- Runtime
- 2h01
0
Once Is Not Enough
In a world of wealth, love is the ultimate gamble.
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Synopsis
Once Is Not Enough follows the tumultuous life of a young woman named Lila Keenan, played by Deborah Raffin, who strives to find her identity in a world overflowing with the excesses of wealth and fame. After the death of her father, Lila navigates the glitzy yet troubling landscape of New York City's elite, where she encounters a group of flawed characters, including her manipulative mother, portrayed by Marianna Hill. At the center of this drama is Mike Wayne, a powerful yet disillusioned bachelor played by Kirk Douglas, who finds himself drawn into Lila's complicated life. The film explores themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for personal fulfillment against the backdrop of a society obsessed with superficiality. With its stunning visuals and heartfelt performances, Once Is Not Enough presents a cautionary tale about the high price of desire and the elusive nature of happiness in a world where nothing is what it seems.
Cast
Reviews
Once Is Not Enough received a mixed response from critics upon its release in 1975. The film, loosely based on the bestselling novel by Jacqueline Susann, was criticized for its melodramatic plot and uneven pacing. 'The film cannot decide if it wants to be a serious drama or an outrageous soap opera,' noted a critic from The New York Times, who gave it a rating of two out of five stars. However, there were praise and appreciation for the performances, particularly that of Kirk Douglas, who was lauded for bringing depth to his character amidst the film's flaws. Rotten Tomatoes rates the film at 23%, indicating a generally unfavorable reception among critics. Despite this, some viewers have found the film's exploration of themes like love and familial ties captivating, with IMDb users awarding it a score of 4.6/10; one viewer commented, 'Itโs a period piece that resonates with the struggles of personal identity, despite its shortcomings.' The film remains a notable entry in Kirk Douglas's extensive filmography, recognizable for its bold narrative choices and emotive performances.
