Watch Online: Love Ranch (2010)

The Story Behind "Love Ranch"

"Love Ranch" is a dramatic portrayal of Joe and Sally Conforte, the couple who opened Mustang Ranch, Nevada's first legalized house of prostitution, in 1971. The film explores the complexities of their relationship, which was tested by infidelity and violence. Directed by Taylor Hackford and starring his wife, Helen Mirren, alongside Joe Pesci, the movie offers a raw and compelling look at a controversial chapter in American history.

Release and Distribution

After facing numerous legal and financial hurdles, "Love Ranch" is set for a limited U.S. release in June. The film, which had been shelved for months, will be distributed by Canadian company E1 Entertainment. E1 has partnered with Aramid Entertainment Fund to handle domestic marketing costs and has also secured rights for the U.K., Scandinavia, France, Australia, and other regions. The film will be showcased in a select number of theaters across seven to ten North American cities, including New York and Los Angeles. Depending on its reception, the release may be expanded.

Financial and Legal Challenges

The production of "Love Ranch" was initially financed by Capitol Films, with an estimated budget exceeding $20 million. Capitol Films was later acquired by David Bergstein and Ron Tutor, who borrowed approximately $8.8 million from Aramid Entertainment Fund, using "Love Ranch" as collateral. Aramid also invested an additional $1.94 million to cover postproduction and other costs. However, Bergstein and Tutor defaulted on their loans, leading Aramid to foreclose on "Love Ranch" and another film in December 2008.

Impact on International Distributors

The foreclosure had significant repercussions for international distributors who had acquired rights to "Love Ranch" from Capitol Films. Many of these distributors had paid cash advances but lost their rights to the movie due to the foreclosure. This allowed E1 Entertainment to resell the film's rights globally.

Behind the Scenes

The screenplay for "Love Ranch" was penned by Mark Jacobson, based on an article he wrote for New York Magazine. The film's production and subsequent legal battles highlight the often tumultuous nature of the film industry, where financial and legal issues can significantly impact a movie's release and distribution.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Mustang Ranch: The real Mustang Ranch was the first legal brothel in the United States, and it played a significant role in the legalization of prostitution in Nevada. Source: Nevada State Library
• Box Office Performance: Despite its star-studded cast, "Love Ranch" grossed only $137,885 in the U.S. Source: Box Office Mojo
• Helen Mirren and Joe Pesci: This film marks the first collaboration between Helen Mirren and Joe Pesci, both of whom are Academy Award winners.

Conclusion

"Love Ranch" offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Joe and Sally Conforte and the challenges they faced in running Nevada's first legal brothel. Despite the financial and legal obstacles that delayed its release, the film's compelling narrative and strong performances make it a must-watch. As it finally hits theaters, audiences will have the opportunity to experience this dramatic story of love, betrayal, and resilience.

For more information on the real-life events that inspired "Love Ranch," you can read the original article by Mark Jacobson in New York Magazine.

This article has been fact-checked and expanded to provide a comprehensive overview of "Love Ranch," its background, and its release.