"Camila" takes place in Buenos Aires, Argentina (1847-1848) during the tyrannic rule of Governor Juan Manuel de Rosas. The film recounts the tragic true story of Camila O'Gorman, a 19 year old socialite, who falls madly in love and runs away with a young Jesuit Priest, Ladislao Gutierrez. For a few months they were able to live happily as man and wife in a small village near the border of Brazil where they worked as school teachers. Respected by all who knew them, and unaware of their real identity, Camila and Ladislao were eventually recognized by a priest and captured. Imprisoned and executed without a trial by Rosas' orders, their bodies were placed together in a double coffin. At the time of her death Camila was eight months pregnant (but, perhaps due to censorship the film alters that fact) and her execution, along with Ladislao's, prompted the downfall of Rosas' reign.

This is a story that goes beyond doomed love, but also focuses upon personal and political freedom. Susu Pecoraro (Camila),who bares a strong resemblance to the real Camila, and Imanol Arias (Ladislao) are magnificent. This film is a masterpiece!

Forbidden Fruit Is Always The Sweetest Since you probably already know the general plot to 'Camila' your big question is, "Is it worth my time to watch this film and have my heart strings pulled hard?" Yes. 'Camila' certainly pulls the heart strings of any viewer. The final scene is one of the most dramatic in history.

The production quality and acting is exceptional. 'Camila' should also be credited as with what it doesn't contain which most/all Hollywood romances do. Overly graphic sex and political agendas.

'Camila' is considered controversial for the obvious forbidden romance and Hollywood worried about it being too offensive to Catholics to be a success. As a Catholic myself I dreaded some kind of political speech. I was surprised to see none. In fact there are no types of anti Catholic diatribes or speeches at all. The story is powerful enough to stand alone. We don't need to hear a speech about a father petitioning the governor to override the law and execute his pregnant daughter. The characters know it's just as horrific as the audience.

'Camila' is also smart enough to avoid graphic or even passionate sex scenes. In fact there's no nudity, simulated sex, or even passionate kissing. Only moderate passionate kissing. Again the story is strong enough to stand on its own.

I'll never forget the horrific graphic sex scene between Nicole Kidman and Jude Law. OK! The audience gets it! They're making love! We do not need to see part A going into part B! Less is more.

The only negative point which prevents me from giving 'Camila' a full 10 stars is that more of the drama pulling of heart strings is focused around the lovers' execution rather than their love. I just wasn't feeling to romance. Honestly, if the film ended with the lovers riding happily into the sunset I wouldn't recommend it at all. Most of the reviewers here seem to agree. The drama really revolves around the lovers' deaths rather than their lives.

This film is about a doomed relationship between the daughter of a rich fascist-type landowner in Argentina about 1830 or so (after the successful revolution against the Spanish). The new government, it seems, feels that the end justifies the means and repression is used to keep control of the fledgling nation.

Camila finds that she is not attracted to the macho rich suitors but instead finds herself drawn to the new Jesuit priest. Despite common sense and many obstacles, they run off together. What I found most interesting in the movie was the character of her father, who was instrumental in tracking them down and exacting punishment.

In many ways, the plot reminded me of The Thorn Bird mini-series combined with a fascist-like backdrop. A pretty good film overall. Be aware, however, of the nudity. It's NOT as much as you might expect in such a film but considering he's a priest, it's bound to offend some.