Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired Poster

Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired 2008

★ 6.376 votes99 min📅 2008-01-18

"The truth couldn't fit in the headlines."

This gripping documentary, *Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired* (2008), directed by Marina Zenovich, dives into the stormy intersection of fame, justice, and personal turmoil that reshaped the life of one of cinema's most celebrated directors.

Director: Marina Zenovich

Cast

Andrew Braunsberg
Andrew Braunsberg
Self
Richard Brenneman
Self
Douglas Dalton
Self
Marilyn Beck
Self
Steve Barshop
Self
Madeline Bessmer
Self
Michael M. Crain
Self
Samantha Geimer
Samantha Geimer
Self
Mia Farrow
Mia Farrow
Self
Pedro Almodóvar
Pedro Almodóvar
Self (archive footage)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired* (2008) about?

This documentary unravels the public scandal and legal turmoil that drove filmmaker Roman Polanski from the U.S. in the 1970s, exploring the personal and professional fallout of a high-profile case that still sparks debate today.

Who directed *Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired*?

The documentary was directed by Marina Zenovich, known for her incisive work on celebrity and justice themes in films like *Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired*.

Who stars in *Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired*?

Key figures include Andrew Braunsberg, Richard Brenneman, Douglas Dalton, Marilyn Beck, and Steve Barshop, whose perspectives shape the film's narrative.

Is *Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired* (2008) worth watching?

As a documentary, it offers a compelling mix of investigative journalism and cinematic storytelling, ideal for those drawn to real-life dramas and Hollywood's shadowy underbelly. While not a crowd-pleaser, its depth and relevance make it a must-see for film buffs.

How long is *Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired*?

The film runs for 99 minutes, a tight runtime that keeps the pacing sharp without sacrificing detail.

🎥 Trailer

About Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired (2008) — The Untold Story Behind the Headlines

This gripping documentary, *Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired* (2008), directed by Marina Zenovich, dives into the stormy intersection of fame, justice, and personal turmoil that reshaped the life of one of cinema's most celebrated directors. Through intimate interviews and archival footage, the film paints a vivid portrait of the scandal that erupted in the late 1970s, forcing Polanski into exile and leaving behind a legacy clouded by controversy. The atmosphere is tense, blending courtroom drama with a human tragedy that transcends headlines, offering viewers an unflinching look at the consequences of public scrutiny and private mistakes.

Zenovich crafts a meticulously researched narrative that interrogates the media frenzy and legal ambiguities of the era, making this more than just a biographical sketch—it's a reflection on power, privilege, and the fragility of reputation. With a runtime of 99 minutes, the documentary balances its investigative depth with accessible storytelling, appealing to both film enthusiasts and casual viewers interested in the darker side of Hollywood's golden age.