A short story by W. P. Kinsella, "Lieberman in Love", was the basis for the film.[4] The Oscar win came as a surprise to Kinsella, who, watching the award telecast from home, had no idea the film had been made and released. He was not listed in the film's credits or acknowledged by Lahti in her acceptance speech. A full-page advertisement ran in Variety apologizing to Kinsella for the error.[5]
Plot
At a resort in Hawaii, wealthy Joe Lieberman is attracted to a guest named Shaleen, who turns out to be a prostitute. They begin a professional relationship, which continues even after Joe develops a romantic interest in a married woman, Kate, who sells him a condominium.