How long have i been searching for a film that perfectly demonstrates the complexity and the wonder of the male psyche? I am of the opinion that with this film my search came to an end. Mike nichols, best known for the brilliant film "the graduate" performs his duty as director with the same craft and spendour in "Carnal Knowledge". A young Jack Nicholson wonderfully plays a character that we all find ourselves becoming at one point or another, he reminds us all of the raw animalism that exists in all men. This is surely a performance that would be a standout for most actors, but because of his undeniable brilliance, this is one of his lesser known roles. The surpise package in the film comes in Art Garfunkel, a man known for his musical skills, but maintains a strong screen presence and achieves a perfect charecterisation as the sweet but somewhat naive co-lead male role. The effect of the film is clearly demonstrated in the work of Woody Allen, and the philosophy which the film encorporates will stay with the most simple minded of audience.