Wide Sargasso Sea is a 1993 film adaption of Jean Rhys's 1966 novel of the same name, directed by John Duigan. For a full length summary see: plot summary of Wide Sargasso Sea. Fine Line Features released the film for the United States market. The film was given a restrictive NC-17 rating due to its sexual content. Fine Line opted not to pursue a less restrictive, more marketable R rating. Wide Sargasso Sea grossed $45,806 at the box office in Australia.