Lust (2019): The Intern – A Summer Of

Her mentor, – a charming, enigmatic senior executive with a mysterious past – takes a personal interest in her career. What begins as professional guidance quickly escalates into a torrid, clandestine affair. As the summer heat intensifies, Chloe discovers that Julian is entangled with two other women in the office: the jaded but magnetic art director, Sloane , and the icy, ambitious HR manager, Rebecca , who is also Julian’s ex-lover.

The "HR nightmare" aspect adds a layer of adrenaline. The danger of losing a career opportunity adds stakes to every encounter.

Authors like Vi Keeland or Penelope Ward often capture this exact "intern/boss" energy. the intern – a summer of lust (2019)

The protagonist constantly grapples with their career goals versus their immediate physical attractions.

★½ (1.5/5) – “More lust than logic, and not enough of either to satisfy.” Her mentor, – a charming, enigmatic senior executive

However, the film has gained a small cult following on streaming platforms and among fans of “so-bad-it’s-good” erotic thrillers. Some praise its unapologetic embrace of B-movie tropes and its unintentionally hilarious dialogue (“My only risk is wanting you more than my career.”).

The lead actress (often listed under a stage name) delivers a committed, raw performance as Chloe, successfully conveying youthful naivety curdling into disillusionment. The male lead, Julian, is played with smoldering but one-note intensity – more archetype than person. Supporting actresses Sloane and Rebecca steal several scenes, hinting at a more interesting film about female rivalry and solidarity that never fully materializes. The "HR nightmare" aspect adds a layer of adrenaline

As the story unfolds, Soo-jin finds herself drawn to Joon's charms, and the two begin a complex and tumultuous relationship. Joon's intentions are unclear, and Soo-jin must navigate her feelings for him while also dealing with the challenges of her career and personal life.