Vinegar Syndrome Peekarama Review: The New Erotic Adventures of Casanova (1977) / Casanova 2 (1982)

THE NEW EROTIC ADVENTURES OF CASANOVA (1977, dir: Carlos Tobalina)

  John Holmes (Eruption) stars as John, a man who has recently inherited and sold off the estate of his late great grandfather. Looking for something of a keepsake, he visits the antique dealer (Tory Jeffery, The Autobiography of a Flea) and is given a bottle of cologne found in a desk. The cologne belongs to great Casanova and was used to scent his love letters. He applies some to his clothes and this leads to the first of many sexual encounters, this time being with the cleaner of the motel he is staying at. Once getting dirty with cleaner, he visits his family while he's in town. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your preference) the effect of the cologne rubs off on them, leading John to literally rub off on them. Yes, even his underage cousins fall foul to magic of this scent. John is telling his story to his therapist, Dr. Sharpe (Susan Silver, Casanova 2). Initially skeptical of John's story, she gives the cologne a whiff and well, we all know how this story (and in this case, the actual film) ends.

  Starting off very promising with a good sense of scope and seeming to have an actual budget thanks to costume design (always had a thing for women's costumes from this period, classical music and location photography which admittedly, is mainly thanks to footage lifted from Bud Yorkin's Start the Revolution Without Me. Yeah, Donald Sutherland (Don't Look Now) is clearly seen within the film's opening sequence. Even with that, the films has a sense of “legitimacy”. Unfortunately, the film loses its charm when we cut to present day. Don't get me wrong, John Holmes is fantastic throughout. He plays the role of Casanova so well and is genuinely smooth and charismatic, even when he's partaking in Monty Python-cum-Benny Hill sword fights! It just becomes your typical Tobalina fodder. Don't worry, there's group scenes and once again, themes like underage sex and incest are dealt in an almost tongue in cheek fashion. Thankfully seeing the likes of Jane Goodman (unfortunately her only role) and Sandy Pinney (The Pony Girls) soften the blow. All in all, this is a much more classy affair from Tobalina. The king of missed opportunities strikes again.

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CASANOVA 2
(1982, dir: Carlos Tobalina)

  After a recap of Casanova's exploits, we find our smooth talker talking on three aggressors with his sword (ha!). After they are defeated, he discovers one is a woman (Cathy Linger in her only role). Seeing that she is still alive, he takes her to the nearest house and demands a doctor. With the outlook for the fallen swordswoman bleak, there seems to be a silver lining; the woman who fetched the doctor is named Myra (Bridgette Felina also in her only role unfortunately), who at 16 was deflowered by none other than Casanova. The pair reminisce and the swordswoman in her potentially final hours wants to be impaled once again. After this weird little threesome we are told that the swordswoman birthed Casanova’s son, Don Juan (Bjorn Beck, another one hit wonder). Fast forward to Don Juan on his own journey showing off his sword skills (in both senses, just like daddy!). He finds himself sorting out some family problems for Count de Léon (Rick Ardon, Sadie) and his wife Isabella (Jessie St. James, Vista Valley PTA). After that we fast forward to where the first film finished. John is now in a relationship with Dr. Sharpe and they decide to commercialise the cologne, which has some rather surprising effects changing John's life forever!

  Although mainly comprised of recycled and unused footage from the first film, the sequel is actually an improvement. It's nothing amazing and still has that purely for the money Tobalina feel, but the film just works better. The film takes an interesting turn and even though there is A LOT of what you could assume is previously existing and unrelated sex in the latter third, it makes sense. If Tobalina is one thing, he is shrewd. One cannot fault him that regard. Once again, John Holmes steals the show, but it's nice to see the likes of Kay Parker (Taboo) and Bill Margold (Dracula Sucks) make a brief appearance. Once again, there's a sense of scale and shows the creative potential of Tobalina. It was also surprising to see just how many cast members had only this as their credit. There is some real talent on show throughout and a lot potential big names in the making. Maybe just like Tobalina, they were looking for a quick pay-check. Overall, not a bad effort at all and one of Tobalina's better productions which surprises me because knowing of Tobalina's work and the fact that this is a sequel five years after the original, it could have been a complete mess.

Overall, this isn't a bad pairing of films. Sure, they reek of the aspects of Tobalina that most can't stand, but this is when cutting corners and uses cheap tactics works for me. It's done well and reminds me of one of my favourite directors; Bruno Mattei. The biggest thing for me is the way the films are structured. If you were to take all the period elements of both films and edit them in to a cohesive story, you'd have a genuinely good period adult feature. You could then take all the present day story and have that edited together into a cohesive sequel. I think the films would work much better in that regard. That being said, I could happily watch this double feature again. Vinegar Syndrome have once again done a nice job on restoration and presentation. Sure, it isn't perfect, but it's much better than what some would say Tobalina deserves. In terms of extra features, you get trailers for both films. If you have become disheartened with Tobalina or have yet to experience his work, I would highly recommend this release.

The New Erotic Adventures of Casanova and Casanova 2 are available on DVD from Vinegar Syndrome or online to stream at Exploitation.tvPDx

Vinegar Syndrome Peekarama Review: Anticipation (1981) / Flesh Pond (1982)

ANTICIPATION
(1981, dir: Carlos Tobalina)

“Beyond Temptation...”

  Joyce (Sheila Parks, Casanova II) and Jerry (Jesse Adams, Deep Rub) are newlyweds who, after some mind numbingly awkward conversation, make love for the first time. After breaking in the cheap motel bed (how romantic!), the pair talk about Jerry's brother Steve (Joey Silvera, Carnal Haven), who apparently had problems with his parents when he announced that he was marrying a girl with a reputation by the name of Wendy (Karo Akamoto in her only role). We also find out that he is set to be released from prison for accidentally killing (or so he thought, just watch, it makes sense) the lover of his cheating wife. Once released, the brothers are reunited and introduced to their new sisters-in-law. Whilst on a trip to what looks like the coldest beach ever, Joyce and Steve begin to have forbidden thoughts for each other. Actually, so does Jerry and Wendy! After some awkwardly narrated daydreaming from everyone involved, Jerry and Steve confide in each other and their mother that they love other women. Before they can act on it, they get invited to Serena's party (seemingly playing herself, Pleasure Palace). Will their secrets be revealed? It's sure going to get messy!

  I'm just going to say it. This is possibly one of the dullest Tobalina flicks I have watched to date. The concept is great and has so much potential, but Lawrence Lance's (thankfully his only writing credit) handling of the script is uninspired and clearly rushed. To say it's paper thin is an offence to the trees that were sacrificed in order to make the napkin this tripe was written on. I won't even comment on how iff target the humour is. The only real entertainment to be had with Anticipation is the slightly worse than usual acting throughout. Not even Joey Silvera, a performer who can act, seems to be giving his all. There's some fairly standard sex throughout and yes, there's the usual orgy which goes on for way too long. There are actual instant replays in the final sex scenes that add an odd charm to the film. Look out for some very awkward, bordering on incest action at the end of the film. The only genuine quality the film has is the music selection which I believe is comprised of original music by Jay Rando (Interlude of Lust) and library tracks selected by Matt Webber (his only credited role). That being said, as much as I love great library music, not even the dirty funky bass lines can save this ultimately forgettable Tobalina quickie.

FLESH POND
(1982, dir: Carlos Tobalina)

“Consumed by pools of passion...”

Paco (Hermon Tobalina in his only role) and his unnamed friend (Reggie Gunn, Lips) have just escaped from prison. They stumble upon a quint little brothel ran by a woman named Drea (Drea, Hot Buns) and decide to hold herself and her patrons hostage. Not only that, but they demand to be entertained whilst they work their next move. Festivities begin when Rita Ricardo (as herself, My Sinful Life) has some fun with her doll companion Johnny Rubber. After that kinky warm up, the action really begins with good old Tobalina fashioned group action, under the firm dictation of the increasingly frustrated Paco. Things are going great (I guess) until Paco's friend gets caught in the crossfire, if you know what I mean? After A LOT of group bonding, Paco is forced to tell of his story to the group thanks to the persistent interest of one of the patrons, a magazine publisher (William Margold, Dracula Sucks). The convicts claim that they have been framed, to the mixed reaction of their captive audience. What's in store for the potentially innocent escapees? Will everyone come out of this situation alive? You know what? It may not be worth it.

I said that Anticipation was one of Tobalina's dullest. Well, this one has just taken that crown. Yes, this was quite frankly awful. Just like Anticipation, there is so much room for creativity. How can you mess up a scenario like this so badly!? You may find this one very hard to keep up with, not because of the complexity of the story, far from it! Everyone looks bored in this production. For such a hostile situation, everyone seems completely indifferent. I won't lie, I had my finger on the fast forward button a lot. This is essentially one continuous group scene with some lazily added 'plot' sequences and recycling of footage. Yeah, this film is more than forgetful. If it wasn't for one or two creative pieces of cinematography from Tobalina himself, the unfortunate money shot and library music, this would have been potentially the worst piece of golden age action I have seen. To Tobalina's credit though, he knows how to sell a film and is quite frugal overall. I bet he made his money back easily on this one, shame it's such a piece of crap.

This is probably the weakest Vinegar Syndrome release I have reviewed so far. I have a love / hate relationship with the films of Carlos Tobalina and these two films perfectly demonstrate why I can hate his work. It's such a shame because these are great initial premises and there are versatile themes throughout. It's just so uninspired in terms of execution. There's only really enjoyment for those looking for unintended laughs, but that's no real saving grace. Vinegar Syndrome are my favourite distribution company. Even though I found the films genuinely awful, I have no negative words to say about Vinegar Syndrome at all in terms of this release. They have dedicated a lot of time and resources releasing the filmography of Carlos Tobalina. Not every film can be a classic, it just appears that by chance, two of his weakest appear here. In terms of presentation, it's another great job with only minor defects. It doesn't help that these films were shot so badly. In terms of extras, we get theatrical trailers for both films. That I definitely approve of! Overall, this release is only really for completests and hardcore fans of Carlos Tobalina. If you're not too familiar with Tobalina's work, give this one a pass for now.

Anticipation and Flesh Pond are available as a double feature DVD from Vinegar Syndrome.

PDx

Vinegar Syndrome Reekarama Review: Come Under my Spell (1979) / Lady Dynamite (1979)

COME UNDER MY SPELL

(dir: Carlos Tobalina, 1979)

“The film that will bring you up to a joy you're paying for!”

  The film opens up in hip and swinging San Fransisco and instantly we are introduced to some heavy student action. Before the memories of university life get the better of me (yeah right!), we are introduced Fernando, played by Fernando Fortes (I Am Always Ready). Fernando is a foreign exchange student who really, really like animals! Unfortunately for him, he hasn't had any human action since arriving in America. Thankfully, his friend Dave, played by Blair Harris (Teeny Buns) is on hand to try and rectify that. He sets Fernando up with a threesome, but it doesn't go to plan. Being the good friend that he is, Dave decides to cheer him up by buying a cheap copy of a sexual hypnotism book. After studying hard through the power of montage, Fernando embarks on his sexual adventure one woman at a time. He even gets to see some lesbian action! To show his gratitude, he allows Dave to join in from time to time, even if it can get messy (don't worry, you'll see!). The pair even take their creepy new trick to Dave's family at a wedding. How far will they go? How many notches will Fernando and Dave rack up? Will it get in between their friendship? You're either going to have to watch for yourself or find your own hypnotism book!

  Come Under My Spell is as innocent of a film about unwilling sex as can be I guess? The film is played as a slapstick comedy that I'm sure all the feminists and social justice warriors will adore! I found the comedy to be hit and miss. You will laugh more at the clumsy dialogue, especially when it's being delivered by Fernando. Aside from having a few memorable moments, the film does suffer from the occasional dull patch. In terms of the sex, it does deliver. That being said, you will be unintentionally balling (no pun intended) at the sight of little Fernando in nothing but his socks and his arse bouncing around, he's clearly having major fun! I often sigh at Tobalina's extended use of the orgy scene, but thankfully the one (yes, only one!) in this film is much more tolerable than usuals. Thinking about the film in terms of its rather disturbing subject matter and themes makes me chuckle (I do enjoy misguided comedy!). Overall, it's a straightforward film with a fairly solid and paced story with the added bonus of having the likes of Connie Peterson (Chopstix), Liza Dwyer (Over Easy) and Vicky Zederquist (in her only credited role) on screen. It also should be noted that the final third of the film is genuinely great.

LADY DYNAMITE

(dir: Carlos Tobalina, 1979)

“Ready to please!”

 

Colleen Brennan (Supervixens) stars as Valerie, a loyal housewife of 10 years who has just found out from her doctor (Tobalina in an uncredited cameo) that she has contracted the clap thanks to her unfaithful husband. She decides that enough is enough and once cleared up, she begins a deep and personal sexual journey. Her first stop is a wealthy executive played by Blair Harris. He has wanted her for many years and luckily for him, it's all hands on deck on his boat. After a lot of hardcore nautical action, Valerie has a party to attend, a girls only party to be exact. All the girls hit it off straight away and they proceed to get to know each other better and deeper. After some serious ice breaking, the entertainment for the evening arrives in the form of hairy manly exotic dancers. One of which instantly (and disturbingly) reminds me of 80's era Alan Parsons (yuck!). After some seriously dope dance moves, it's orgy time with some added 80's sounding synth beats thrown in for good measure! After the party, Valerie's sexual journey comes to an end and she finds herself back at home with her grovelling husband. Is this her return or the final goodbye?

 
If Lifetime or Hallmark did pornography, this is what it would look like. A very simple melodrama about a woman's personal journey after having her life ruined by someone she loves. What Valerie lacks in logic (remedying Gonorrhoea and a cheating husband by sleeping with multiple partners is completely rational) she makes up for in sass and sex appeal. That is of course thanks to Brennan's performance. Even surrounded by good looking co-stars (I'm talking about the party scene before Alan Parsons cock blocked me!), she is centre of attention. All in all, it's a well acted film with some equally well performed sex scenes (once again, Brennan shines above all!). That being said, some set pieces do tend to drag. The film is re-watchable, if only for the cheesy charm of the music, style and of course Brennan. Fans of Brennan definitely need to pick this one up. Just make sure to use precaution!

Lady Dynamite could be considered the 'better' film of the two, but Come Under My Spell was more enjoyable (albeit unintentionally) for me. Both films do have their moments and it's a better pairing of Carlos Tobalina films compared to some of the previous releases I have covered. Both films have been restored and presented wonderfully. There may be a few visual and audio niggles here and there, but it doesn't detract from Vinegar Syndrome's good work. Each film comes with a trailer, which is always a bonus. Overall, this is a solid release. They may not be Tobalina's most entertaining efforts, but they are far from his dullest. A great introduction to his work as well as an essential release for those completing their Tobalina collection.

Come Under My Spell and Lady Dynamite double feature are available directly from Vinegar Syndrome here as well as most of your favourite online retailers.

PDx

Vinegar Syndrome Peekarama Review: Sexual Heights (1981) / Undulations (1981)

SEXUAL HEIGHTS

(dir: Carlos Tobalina, 1981)

“Unparallelled peaks of passion...”

  Got a little fact for you all before we start. Did you know that there are more divorced men living in San Fransisco than anywhere else in the world? No? Well neither did I until watching this film. A few minutes in and we're learning something already! Anyway, we meet our main characters, a group of divorced buddies who live together. We have Joe the architect, played by Herschel Savage (JAIL BAIT, FLESHDANCE), Ron the doctor, played by Jamie Gillis (WATERPOWER, DRACULA SUCKS), Jim the Lawyer, played by Jesse Adams (MOB JOB, ULTRAFLESH) and Art the engineer, played by Michael Morrison (PURELY PHYSICAL, CORRUPTION). After watching some porn, Joe tells them the story of how he came to be divorced. It's all down to his pesky dick teasing babysitter Laurie, played by Tawny Pearl (BALLGAME, LUSTY LADIES). After talking about he nearly raped the poor thing, they come up with the plan to get revenge and let Joe have some more fun. They decide to dress up, get alcohol and lace cigarettes with some good old weed. John Holmes (PRISONER OF PARADISE, JOHNNY WADD) wants in, but Ron says she may be a bit scared by his 'presence'. Poor John, he's very understanding though and goes home to get down and dirty with Mai Lin (CRACKED ICE, ORIENTAL MADAM), so it's not all bad. With the gang suited and booted, including Joe in drag, they call Laurie, she arrives and takes advantage of the hospitality. Under the influence and watching the free porn available, she decides to play and yeah, you can see this how this will end. Well, there's a couple of nice surprises (for some) along the way!

  Well ladies and gentlemen we have quite a cast here! Jamie Gillis, Herschel Savage and John Holmes. Even the wonderful Serena (BLACK LOLITA, AUNT PEG) gets a major credit. Well, I say John Holmes and Serena have a major credit, they're hardly in it! Holmes is involved in a couple of unrelated sequences and has a few lines with Gillis. Serena only appears in a girl on girl video the divorcees decide to watch (it is a lovely scene though!). Oh well, easy pay-check and it's more names to sell the film I guess? That small complaint aside, Sexual Heights is a fun watch and not just for Savage's ludicrously giant spectacles! It's an absurd story that involves an absurd plan and it's done with a purposefully slapstick tone. Seeing Herschel Savage in drag is worth admission alone. The fact that Laurie doesn't realise who's involved is humorous. Everyone puts in a great performance, I just wish John Holmes was more predominant. I will admit that towards the end, the film was beginning to drag (there's a Tobalina staple involved, you may know my thoughts on that). All in all, this is a nice and silly title that doesn't take itself too seriously. That being said, there are a couple of genuinely sinister scenes from Gillis (no surprises there) and Savage that put the icing on the cake. Not the best effort, but far from a dull entry in to Tobalina's filmography.
UNDULATIONS

(dir: Anthony Spinelli, 1981)

“The ultimate trip around the world... In motion...!”

John Holmes and Jamie Gillis return, but this time they playing themselves as guests with president of the International Male Watchers' Society, Maggie Miller, played by Kitty Shane (CHAIN LETTER, TANGERINE) on the late night talk show Undulations. The hosts are Mai Lin (also returning as herself) and Georgia Drugg, played by Suzannah French (BLAZING ZIPPERS, SKIN ON SKIN). The group discuss a whole manner of subjects from male prostitutes, women taking advantage of men when it comes to landing that all important and gay rights amongst other things. John and Jamie talk also talk about (in an actually sincere and honest sounding way) their approaches to what they do best. Each subject discussed is illustrated with a vignette including something that art lovers wish would happen to them when they find a piece that is a bit out of their price range. All of this climaxes in to, yes you guessed it... A signature Tobalina group session!

Yep, this is a simple film. It's as straightforward as Jamie's hardened pecker. A novel concept, that some may enjoy more than others. As always Holmes and Gillis put in a great performance, the female cast not so much. That being said, there's nothing too jarring about their performances so it never becomes an issue. On a purely trivial note, damn is John Holmes a flashy dresser. I need to get me a goddamn red turtleneck immediately! Overall, I did enjoy this effort too. The vignettes are also well acted and don't really outstay their welcome. The action is good and varied, especially seeing the Holmes / Gillis double team! I liked some of the 'social' aspects too. I'm not too sure if it was completely intentional, but it does cover some great civil issues and also tackles gender politics. Don't worry, you're not getting bogged down with pseudo-intellectual bullshit with this. Out of the two, this is the weaker of the films, but nothing awful and it does have replay value.

Overall, these are above average films from Carlos Tobalina. Sure, he uses the kaleidoscope effect a lot throughout and even uses the end credits of Sexual Heights for Undulations which gives it an unintentional charm. I'm guessing both films were produced back to back here. In terms of picture and sound quality, another stand up job from Vinegar Syndrome. I'm not too sure what sort of home release these titles have had in the past, but damn do they look and sound wonderful. I've said in the past that sometimes the pairings on these Peekarama releases can be pretty weak, but this is a fairly solid double feature, I can see why they';re released together. All in all, this is definitely worth your time and hey, getting to see Holmes and Gillis on home format is always a great thing! Wow, I seem to mention the male cast in classic porn a lot.... oh well!

PDx

Vinegar Syndrome Peekarama Review: Three Ripening Cherries (1979) / Sensual Fire (1979)

THREE RIPENING CHERRIES

(dir: Carlos Tobalina, 1979)

“RIPE for ACTION ready to be plucked...'”

  Don't you just love sisters? Well, thankfully Uncle Tobalina has a film just for you! What we have here are the three sisters. Sally, Lucy and Ann played by Dorothy Lemay (TABOO, CHOPSTIX), Misty Regan (CHAMPAGNE ORGY, BABY CAKES) and my favourite, Brooke West (FANTASY, THE BLONDE). After a hard day at school, the girls go home and ask their mum Rose, played by Kitty Shayne (SEXUAL HEIGHTS, UNDULATIONS) all about sex. She tells them about her experiences when she was their age. We find out her virginity was robbed by a family friend leading her to seek out compassion whenever and wherever she could. Her journey to find the PERFECT orgasm comes to an end when she meets the man who would become her husband. How very aromatic indeed! Inspired by her stories, the girls retire to their bedroom and well, they get to grips with each other whilst fantasising about various boys and teachers from their school. Why wasn't my high school experience like this!? It's not all happy days for the girls however, as they find out that a couple of guys they want to party with are gay. Now it sounds more like my high schoo.... No, wait!

OK, where do I begin? I found this a rather tedious ride in all honesty. Oh don't get me wrong, seeing Brooke West involved in some girly fun is a blast! I just found it to be yet another rather lazy, uninspired piece of smut. I really dig Tobalina, but I'm getting rather tired of seeing group based scenes. I did really enjoy the use of music, Carlos always seems to have good music in his films. What stood out this time was hearing the theme tune to Terry and June (American friends should look up the show on Youtube for a good laugh!), which brought a big smile to my face! All in all, if your wanting pure action, this is a great film. The sex is of a very high quality which is to be expected from Tobalina. Overall, I found it about 20 minutes a bit too long. Oh well, the next film has one of my all time favourites!
SENSUAL FIRE

(dir: Carlos Tobalina, 1979)

“The tremendous allure of YOUNG SEX'”

  Carrying on the whole family theme, we move on to Sensual Fire. Jamie Gillis (THE OPENING OF MISTY BEETHOVEN, WATERPOWER) stars as Roy. He has recently fallen in love with Laura, played by Jesie St. James (RANDY, HOTLINE). Things are going wonderfully for the for the pair. All that changes when Laura's young daughter Teena, played by Dorothy Le May (TABOO, BLIND FURY) returns and shakes things up. Whilst she is in her room having some lonely fun, little does she know Roy's office is next door and he has a peep hole. He begins to watch her which eventually leads to him constantly fantasising about making love to her. To try and shake his mind off this filth, he confides in a shrink friend (we all have one right?). His suggestion is to cleanse his palette and go visit the local cat house. Here he meets cute secretary Glory, played by the blonde goddess herself, Serena (PLEASURE PALACE, PRISONER OF PARADISE). This unfortunately doesn't work so he confides in his friendly neighbourhood man of the cloth, Father Carlos, played by Mr. Tobalina himself. His words of wisdom are to seek out the woman who Teena reminds him of. Yep, I'm converting right now too! Will this plan work? Will the Lord be looking over Roy? Get on your knees and find out for yourself!

Considering we get to see Gillis and Serena getting down, this really isn't that special of a film. Sure, there is enjoyment in the ludicrous storyline and plot development, but it just drags on. Jamie Gillis steals the show as he always does, but even he can't save this one. As is often the case, it's a very well shot film, with some great lens flare shots and wonderful location cinematography. The music is great too, a mix of down and dirty with cheery upbeat synth thrown in. You will definitely recognise one or two of the tracks. Just like Three Ripening Cherries, the film is a tad too long for my tastes and could potentially be cut down by 10 or 20 minutes.

Overall, this isn't really a stand out release in terms of film selection. Both films are rather weak and forgettable. I would say if you're looking to complete your Tobalina collection, then it's perfect for you. If you're looking for a stand experience, maybe pass on this one. What the films lack in substance, they make up for it in style. As always, the films are remastered to an obscenely high quality. A tip top restoration and presentation job from Vinegar Syndrome. As a small bonus, trailers for both films are included so there's a plus point for collectors!

You can buy this DVD release directly from Vinegar Syndrome here, as well as your favourite online retailers.

Vinegar Syndrome Peekarama Review: Mai Lin VS. Serena (1981) / Oriental Hawaii (1982)

MAI LIN VS. SERENA

(dir: Carlos Tobalina, 1981)

“The Sexual Challenge of the Century"

Carlos Tobalina (THEULTIMATE PLEASURE, I AM ALWAYS READY) has a little bit of a problem. He has a new film lined up and needs to find his leading lady. His options are the cute blonde Serena (DRACULA SUCKS, PLEASURE PALACE) and fiery Mai Lin (ORIENTAL MADAM, PEEPHOLES). To help him solve his casting troubles, the pair decide to play a little game. They set off to compete against each other in the form of challenges. Starting by giving diners of a local restaurant something much tastier than the house special. Yes, this is one dining experience they will never forget! Once they have finished that, they move on to a local “kinda” gay bar and hit it off straight away with a cute lesbian couple. As a result of their public displays of  competitive affection, the pair find themselves in jail (I'm guessing, because it just happens) but, the challenge doesn't stop there. To gain their freedom, they seduce their prison guards, which doesn't go so well for all involved. After all the excitement the day has given them, the pair return home and take a bath. A bath with a difference. Yep, it's bukkake showdown time! So, will the pairs little game work off? Who was keeping score? How was this game even being scored!? Carlos has the answer and the answer is... Oh what the heck, they both win! Yay!

Forgive me for my synopsis of the film being brief. It's not my fault! The plot is simple. Under the circumstances, it kinda works. When you have Serena going head to head (strange pun intended) with Mai Lin, you don't want to get bogged down with something as trivial a plot driven film, you want the goods! Trust me, you definitely get the goods with this film. It's always great seeing Serena doing her thing! Herself and Mai Ling have good chemistry and are as charming as they are hot. There's a good cast of recognisable faces too. If you're looking for a ludicrous plot (especially in reference to the restaurant scene) that makes you ask yourself multiple questions but gives you a laugh, this is a great film to throw on. Usually, I like my Golden Age smut to have a story and some teasing of depth, but I found myself really enjoying this one for what it was, an excuse to see Serena and Mai Lin do the dirty. There's a variety of sexual acts on show and it's entertaining. I have heard some compare this to the likes of an uninspired compilation film, I think that's unfair. It's just a simple, entertaining and (sometimes unintentionally) funny film. Plus.... IT'S SERENA FOR GOD'S SAKE!
ORIENTAL HAWAII

(dir: Carlos Tobalina, 1982)

“A sensual tidal wave, Mai Lin goes... Oriental Hawaii"

 Welcome to Hawaii! Home to Sun, sea, sand and hard bodied beauties. It's also home to a financially struggling family headed by Bob, played John Leslie (WILD THINGS, CONFESSIONS) and Mildred, played by Jessie St. James (EASY, TROPIC OF DESIRE). To rake in a bit more money so they can once again eat steak every night (sounds like Heaven), they decide to rent out two rooms to local students. The advert is answered by Mai Lin and Jade Wong (PRISONER OF PARADISE, PURELY PHYSICAL). Let's just say that the family welcomes the new tenants with open arms (and legs). I think it helps when you have four fully grown kids, who enjoy a nice bit of family fun, if you know what I mean? Caring is sharing after all. Things get even weirder when Bob has a vivid dream after taking herbal medicine given to him by his new tenants. He dreams of him and the kids getting down and nasty with each other and the two new tenants. Thankfully, this leads him to having sleep-sex wife. Who says herbal remedies are crap!?

Oriental Hawaii is a fun film. You know you are in for a treat when incest is used as light hearted comedy. It's also amazing seeing John Leslie and Jessie St. James cast as parents to the likes of Jon Martin (BEHIND THE GREEN DOOR, SUZIE SUPERSTAR) and Rhonda Jo Petty (THE BABYSITTER, HOT RACKETS). There is actually more story to this film than Mai Ling Vs. Serena and it makes for an even more enjoyable experience. Just like Serena, I always love watching John Leslie on screen. Of course, Jade Wong and Mai Lin are the main attraction of the film, but John Leslie steals the show for me. The comedy works, the story is simple and the incest angle is strangely fun. Watching the brothers Jon Martin and Jesse Adams (GIRLS U.S.A, OCTOBER SILK) share their Asian roommates is entertaining in itself, for all the wrong reasons. The sex is good and varied, so it definitely delivers the goods there. The icing on the cake is the use of the Hawaiian location and the Black Bison-esque score. A lively and fun score for an equally lively and fun film.

Overall, the double feature is solid. Two completely different kinds of film that somewhat compliment each other. Some may not like the coupling, but I think they are both solid Tobalina / Mai Ling entries. In terms of the quality, both films are presented in wide screen and restored in 2K from original negatives. It's safe to say, these films will never look or sound as good as they are presented here. The release is light on extras, aside from trailers for both films, but the affordability and quality of these films more than make up for it. Whether or not you are a newbie or a veteran to the adult genre, this set is worth in your collection. On a purely selfish note, I just adore the poster artwork for both of these films, so the DVD itself looks great on the shelf. This is typical Vinegar Syndrome quality that we should be thankful for. Oh by the way, did I mention Serena stars?

You can buy this release directly from Vinegar Syndrome here, as well as your favourite online retailers.

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