Passion (1999)

Director Peter Duncan looks at the tortured existence of genius composer Percy Grainger in the Aussie production Passion (1999). By all accounts, Grainger (1882-1961) was an accomplished figure during his long life, penning compositions influenced by traditional folk forms and traveling between Australia, Europe, and the United States. His artistic genius masked personal demons, however, as Grainger was rumored to maintain a forbidden relationship with his dear mum. What makes the situation especially loony is the fact that a smoking-hot pianist (Emily Woof) couldn’t get enough of the composer. Woof bends over to lend her backside to the S&M-loving maestro in scandalous scenes that may make you reevaluate your feelings about classical music.