Desert Hearts
1985, English. Directed by Donna Deitch.
In 1959, Vivian Bell came to Reno, Nevada for a quick divorce. Of all the people she met there, the one who surprised her the most was herself.
While waiting for her divorce papers, a repressed literature professor finds herself unexpectedly attracted by a carefree, spirited young woman named Cay.
- Runtime
- 1h 31m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- English
- Rated
- Check local
Start now and it ends at ….
Worth the Hype
Clear your evening for this.
7.1/10 from 182 TMDB viewer ratings.
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Where to watch Desert Hearts
Desert Hearts is streaming on HBO Max in India.
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Fandango At HomeAvailability in India as of 9 November 2026. Streaming data by JustWatch.
Cast & crew
Details
- Released
- 1 October 1985
- Country
- United States of America
- Written by
- Natalie Cooper
- Budget
- $350K
- Box office
- $2.4M
Check ratings elsewhere
News & fan talk
What Desert Hearts is based on
Desert Hearts is adapted from a novel.
Source details from Wikidata and TMDB.
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Desert Hearts: quick answers
Is Desert Hearts worth watching?
Our verdict is Worth the Hype: Clear your evening for this. It scores 7.1/10 from 182 TMDB viewer ratings.
How long is Desert Hearts?
Desert Hearts runs 91 minutes (1h 31m).
Does Desert Hearts have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for Desert Hearts. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
Desert Hearts parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
No age rating is listed for Desert Hearts yet.
Which OTT platform is Desert Hearts on?
Desert Hearts is streaming on HBO Max in India. (Checked 9 November 2026.)
What movies are like Desert Hearts?
If you liked Desert Hearts, try Below Her Mouth, Petulia, Newness.
Who directed Desert Hearts?
Desert Hearts (1985) was directed by Donna Deitch and stars Helen Shaver, Patricia Charbonneau, Audra Lindley.
What is Desert Hearts based on?
Desert Hearts is adapted from a novel.