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Portrait of a Marriage

Melodrama detailing the real-life love affair between feminist writer Vita Sackville-West and novelist Violet Keppel against the backdrop of post-World War I England and opposition by Vita's politician husband Harold Nicolson. Vita and Violet's romantic relationship becomes increasingly obsessive which spawns destructive feelings of possessiveness and jealousy between them.

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Cast & Crew See All

Janet McTeer
Vita Sackville-West
David Haig
Harold Nicolson
Cathryn Harrison
Violet Keppel Trefusis

Season 1 Episode Guide See All

Episode 1

Episode #1.1

54 mins

In 1940 England, feminist poet Vita Sackville-West gets a phone call from Violet Keppel Trefusis which triggers a flashback to 1917 where Violet first came for a visit at Vita's country house. Violet is dismayed to find her gallant, heroic Vita ensconced in a cozy marriage to diplomat Harold Nicolson, her wild spirit seemingly tamed by her roles as wife and mother to their two young sons, Ben and Nigel. Vita loves her husband, and values him as a great companion. When Harold tells Vita of his past sexual dalliances with men, his disclosure opens the door for her to rekindle her relationship with Violet - not out of revenge, but out of a desire for equal freedom to explore her own same-sex desires for her best friend that she has experienced since her teenage years, and the same goes for Violet.

Where to Watch
Portrait of a Marriage, Season 1 Episode 1 image

Featured Video

Portrait Of A Marriage
Portrait Of A Marriage
2:01

2:01 Portrait Of A Marriage

Awards

  • 1991 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Make Up - nominated
  • 1991 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Costume Design - winner
  • 1991 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Film Editor - winner
  • 1991 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Design - winner

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