An iconic adaptation of the 1964 queer fiction novel ‘Desert of the Heart’ by Jane Rule, Donna Deitch’s swooning and sensual first film was groundbreaking upon its 1985 festival release. Straitlaced East Coast professor Vivian arrives in Reno to file for divorce, but winds up catching the eye of the younger free-spirited Cay, touching off a slow seduction that unfolds against the breathtaking desert landscape. With smoldering chemistry between its two leads, an evocative jukebox soundtrack, and vivid cinematography, Desert Hearts beautifully exudes a sense of tender yearning and emotional candor. In celebration of the National Year of Reading 2026, audience members are invited to take part in a post-screening zine workshop, exploring book-to-film adaptations, the relationship between page & screen, reading spaces (cinematic & literary!), and all things queer text. Presented by Hermit Pictures Part of Scalarama Leeds DIY Film Festival 2026.

Description supplied by the event organiser.