First Love, Last Rites

Passion and infatuation ignite as two lovers flounder through their "first time" in this alarmingly sexy film set in the Louisiana bayou. Joey and Sissel are a young misguided couple trying desperately to make their way through their first intense relationship. Blinded by sexual attraction, they become oblivious to everything around them. But when forced far great than themselves threaten their idyllic existence, each must learn to cope with heart-wrenching pain and loss.

Directed by Jesse Peretz, First Love, Last Rites leans on a strong ensemble — Giovanni Ribisi, Natasha Gregson Wagner, Robert John Burke — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1998.