Sunday, March 7, 2010

Porno Holocaust (1981)




Pure sleaze by the Euro-sleaze master himself, Joe D'Amato.

I am not really sure what D'Amatos purpose for making this film was.... Was it to push the envelope? Make some quick cash...both of the above? Either way, we are left with a historical piece of trash to examine and wonder what possess a person to make a film like this, and what possess us to watch it.

A group of castaways wash up on a deserted island. They are unaware the island is inhabited by a sex-crazed monster who has radioactive sperm, which, you guessed it, leads to the death of some of our female actresses.

Not much to this one here. If you like Italian sex and/or gore films...check it out. If you like to be shocked by bizarre images....check it out. If you have any sense whatsoever....CHECK IT OUT!

Also, I think it is either OOP (out of print) now, or is soon to be. So if you are really nervy, buy a copy!

This is truly an ugly movie, but one that MUST BE SEEN!!!

If you like this, than check out, "EROTIC NIGHTS OF THE LIVING DEAD", or vice-versa


Trailer: http://www.lfvw.com/porno_holocaust.mov

The Iron Rose (1973)





One of the most atmospheric films ever, from one of my favorite directors ever!

Jean Rollin, truly delivers in this aesthetic masterpiece.

If you are looking for fast paced action, gore, or anything extreme...LOOK ELSEWHERE. However, if you are looking for beautiful imagery, surreal images, and a simple story line, this is for you! This is visual poetry... at its best.

Rollin stated that he wanted to make a film as close as possible to a spontaneous made-up campfire story. One that possessed a sense of dread and eroticism permeating the largely silent narrative... and that is just what he did.

Surrealism, eroticism, beautiful cemetery location filming, Rollin, once again, never fails to amaze me.

I have had this movie for such a long time, but have been waiting for the right time to watch it, as ones mood is essential in the viewing of this film. Or, will this film possess you and fill you with a feeling of the bizarre and surreal? This is for you to decide!

Once again, I am mesmerized and fascinated by Rollins ability to capture beauty in motion. Beauty in the smallest of objects and leave me with a feeling of bliss.


Nerosubianco (1969)





Recently released by CULT EPICS in their 3rd TINTO BRASS Box Set, this psychedelic pop film is sure to please any cult fan.

It is on the total opposite spectrum than the usually soft lighting, soft core Brass films that one might be used to, but this is such a great film. In my opinion, these early Brass films (this one included) are extremely artistic and lack the style that Brass would later on develop. The do not use women as an object within a subject, but more emphasis is put on women as part of the subject in these earlier, psychedelic/pop art films.

This film has very little dialogue and is filled with a soundtrack by "Freedom" who was the remnants of Procol Harum. This film is filled with political statements, statements on war, sex, interracial love, etc. Very different than the Late 1980's to 1990's Tinto Brass most people might be used to, but an amazing and lovely film. In addition to that it is wonderful to see where Brass started!

This DVD was made available thanks to a SUPER rare 16mm print from Radely Metzger's private collection, under the title of "The Artful Penetration of Barbara."

Side Note- On one of these early films commentary, in the Tinto Brass Collection, Volume 3, Brass states that he was originally commissioned to direct THE SHINING, but turned it down. While I love Tinto Brass, I can't image anyone topping Kubrick's direction of Stephen King's, THE SHINING!


Antropophagus (1980)



Truly a great film by Euro-trash master Joe D'Amato.

When a group of tourists become stranded on an uninhabited island, they soon find out why there is no one left alive....

This film did not sit well with me upon viewing it the first time. I enjoyed it, but didn't find anything that extraordinary about it. Being a Video Nasty and have a great trailer, I was really let down after watching it.

However, like a few of my all time favorite films, I began to think more and more about this film. I was given the opportunity recently to buy the 2-Disc Shriek Show DVD for very cheap and watched it tonight and LOVED IT!

The atmosphere of this film is what makes it (and the gory ending doesn't hurt either). Composed of a great cast, a great score and sound design this is a must see for any lover of Euro trash film or D'Amato fans.

AKA- The Grim Reaper

This film also has a sequel which was released by MYA COMMUNICATIONS under the uninspired title of "Horrible." It was previously known as Antropophagus 2 and Absurd, but now look for "Horrible." This sequel is just as good and from my recollection it is a bit more violent and gory!!