A Loss of Innocence (1996)

Erik Eriksen, who has become a successful pianist in New York, is back in Templeton, his Mormon community, where he is still treated distrustfully by its members, including his family, for having 'betrayed' them in not living the life God had planned for him. Only his mother and his younger brother Jens, support him unconditionally. Erik falls in love with Chelnica, a beautiful young woman who plays the piano at the local cinema and a dedicated Mormon. The big trouble is that she is also Jens's fiancée, due to marry him soon...

Overview
"A Loss of Innocence" is a 1996 romantic drama film based upon Edith Wharton's 1920 novel, "The Age of Innocence". Directed by Graeme Clifford, the film mainly revolves around the complex relationship between three people residing in a little, Midwestern town. Played by Jennie Garth, Rob Estes, and Michael Lowry, the characters bring a whirlwind of feelings, love, betrayal and social norms amidst a turn-of-the-century background.

Plot Summary
The film follows the life of Erik Eriksen (Rob Estes), a good-looking and good-hearted farmer. Erik falls for Chelnicia Bowen (Jennie Garth), a woman of simple background who is warm, kind, and charming, and as the lady of his dreams, he wants to make her his better half. However, she discovers herself at first captured up in societal pressures and norms that stands as a barrier to their love.

Chelnicia's older sister, Naomi (Rebecca Cross), is inflicted with a concealed disorder which is recommended to have actually impacted her psychological health. As a result, she typically displays disruptive behaviours which the townsfolk discover difficult to endure. As a result, the household is stigmatized and Chelnicia is made to bear the brunt of installing pressures and societal criticisms, which further complicates her relationship with Erik.

Romantic Turmoil
Things take an unexpected turn when a wealthy and influential businessman called Thane Weston (Michael Lowry) shows up in town. He is taken by Chelnicia's beauty and innocence and proposes marital relationship to her, leaving her torn between two guys who could supply her with significantly different lives.

Regardless of her love for Erik, Chelnicia marries Thane due to social pressure and the promise of monetary stability for herself and her sister. Despite the rich life she leads, Chelnicia frequently discovers herself yearning for the simpleness and real love that Erik offered. Meanwhile, Erik is left heartbroken but chooses to appreciate her decision.

Climax and Conclusion
The climax of "A Loss of Innocence" is rooted in deep feeling and tragedy. Regardless of her efforts to offer her marital relationship the very best, Chelnicia's life takes a down spiral, eventually leading to a terrible accident that takes the lives of her hubby and sister. Following this disaster, she leaves her wealthy life behind and go back to the simpleness that she once knew with Erik.

In spite of the numerous challenges they faced, Erik and Chelnicia show that their love can sustain misfortune. They choose to wed and start a modest life together, finding solace in their shared grief and long-held love for one another. The audience is entrusted to a bittersweet testimony to sustaining love and the tragic costs of societal pressures.

Final Thoughts
"A Loss of Innocence" is a haunting and terrible romance set versus the backdrop of societal pressures and preconceptions. Jennie Garth, Rob Estes, and Michael Lowry provide compelling performances, lighting up the harsh realities of societal standards at the time. Ultimately, the movie recommends that despite the possible effects, remaining true to one's heart could yield a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Top Cast

  • Jennie Garth (small)
    Jennie Garth
    Chelnicia 'Chel' Bowen
  • Rob Estes (small)
    Rob Estes
    Erik Eriksen
  • Polly Holliday (small)
    Polly Holliday
    Christina Eriksen
  • Mike Doyle (small)
    Mike Doyle
    Jens Eriksen
  • Michael Milhoan (small)
    Michael Milhoan
    Ivor Eriksen
  • Anne Sward (small)
    Anne Sward
    Ida Eriksen
  • Melissa Moore (small)
    Melissa Moore
    Esther Bowen-Dorius
  • Marcia Dangerfield (small)
    Marcia Dangerfield
    Seenie
  • Scott Wilkinson
    John Brown