Champagne for Breakfast (1980) Review (Vinegar Syndrome DVD)

CHAMPAGNE FOR BREAKFAST

1980, dir: Chris Warfield

“The called her “Champ”... and she was!”

 

Leslie Bovee (Maraschino Cherry) stars as Champagne, a young, attractive and majorly successful advertising executive and vice president of her fathers cosmetic company. She's on the search for a new chauffeur. Thankfully, she may be in luck. Enter Harry ((he'll be doing that a lot), a simple everyday Joe, played by John Leslie (Dracula Sucks). Harry works as a small time chauffeur, but also applies to be a bouncer at a strip joint. Even though he makes a GREAT first impression with his new potential employer and her friend, John puts professionalism before leisure and pleas to his employment agent Gladys Whitmore, played by Kay Parker (Untamed), that his job provides him with too many horny women! Unfortunately for him, Gladys is also a bit of a 'freak'. Sick of it all, Harry hears of Champagne's search and does what any sensible person would do. Yes, you guessed it! Pretend to be gay to secure the job! It obviously works (take notes everyone!) and he's given the job. Straight away he's tasked with driving her to a local bar for a little pick-me-up. Aside from driving her from sexual liaison to sexual liaison, he also takes the role of being her bouncer, masseur and all round gay BFF. Of course, being so hands on with the lovely Champagne leads Harry to develop some strong feelings and sexual urges of his own. Can Harry keep up with his 'professional' work ethos? Will he get found out? What capers will he and Champagne get in to on the way? You're going to have to get yourself comfortable, pour yourself a glass of bubbly and find out for yourself. You Devil you!

  Overall, Champagne for Breakfast is a thoroughly enjoyable piece of comedic porno chic. Chris Warfield (Sexworld) has crafted a genuinely stylish and funny film. This comes as no surprise as the film has an intelligent and witty script penned by John Hayes (Baby Rosemary), as well as great performances from both Leslie and Bovee. Leslie's portrayal of a gay character is never over the top or a misfired caraicature. He is instantly likeable and you are happy to follow his story. Bovee's Champagne is a strong minded woman who is elegant and has an innocence that makes her steal nearly every scene that she is in. Credit also has to go to the supporting cast. The likes of Kay Parker, Bonnie Holiday (Fantasies), Paul Thomas (Pretty Peaches) and Sharon Kane (Babylon Blue), to name just a few, all put in great performances (no matter how big or small) and make this a star-studded event. Not only that, but Elton Fuller's (Purely Physical) cinematography and the overall art direction from Vincent Earle (TheRibald Tales of Canterbury) and related crew make this a very aesthetically pleasing piece of film. There is also a great use of both interior and exterior locations. These stylish aesthetic touches, as well as the theme tune from Jack Stern (C.H.O.M.P.S) and the library music score make this film really stand out. If you want comedy in a porno setting that genuinely works, this film delivers. It's witty when it needs to be, just as it's slapstick when it needs to be. There's also a great segment of dark humour involving Paul Thomas that will have smiling from cheek to cheek (you sicko! You know who you are!). Naturally, with cast that this film has, the sex is of the highest quality and very varied. Champagne gets involved with a group of rent boys, a builder and of course a female friend. There's also some good action for Harry involving a car wash with a difference. With a runtime of around 102 minutes, there's thankfully a great balance of high quality smut and genuine story. This is a very stylish, funny and satisfying film that would go great as a double feature with the likes of Maraschino Cherry or Barbara Broadcast.

The film is presented in the original aspect ratio and has been restored in 2k from the original 35mm negative. It's safe to say that the film looks and sounds great. It's definitely an upgrade from Alpha Blue's Kay Parker Double Feature DVD (as if that would be a surprise!). In terms of special features you get both hard and soft trailers as well scenes from the soft version of the film. If you are a fan of this film, this is an essential upgrade to say the least. If you are looking to get in to the world of porno chic, this is also an essential release as the film stands up with the best of them. I have to raise a glass (I HAD to include another pun) to Vinegar Syndrome for this release. A beautiful restoration job of a genuine gem of a film. Go out and buy this one as soon as you can!

Champagne for Breakfast is available directly from Vinegar Syndrome here and most of your favourite online retailers.

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Weisse Haut auf schwarzen Schenkeln (1976, dir: Jess Franco) Ascot Elite / Illusions UNLTD Blu-Ray Review

The film opens up on the Mondo Erotico set. You know, the obscenely small and narrow black room with the white fluffy bed. It's here we meet Marga, an exotic erotic dancer played by Diotta Fatou (DIE SKLAVINNEN). She's in the middle of one of her stage shows. In the audience we meet Robert, a wealthy middle-aged man played by Roman Huber (DAS FRAUENHAUS). He enjoys the show so much that when Marga has finished her little dance, he decides to take her back to somewhere private. The pair get down to business and instead of enjoying that wonderful post sex cigarette, Marga does the next best thing and throws herself out of the window. Yep, bitches be crazy! The next day Robert is arrested for the attempted murder and it's down to his wife Lola, played by Pilar Coll (MONDO EROTICO), to prove his innocence. She does this by tracking down the nightclub and meeting the owner and Marga's lover Lena, played by Kali Hansa (COUNTESS PERVERSE). Lena seduces Lola and takes her back to her place. The pair eventually make love and form a relationship. Lola hasn't given up her quest yet however? She loves and adores her pig husband. Lena finds a diary belonging to Marga and reads it to Lena. We find out about the rather depressing and troubled life of Marta, including her relationship with Victor, a sleazy and manipulative psychologist / hypnotist type played by Franco's go to hunk, Erik Falk (ILSA THE MAD BUTCHER). Will the diary hold the answer to this strange situation? Will Robert be set free? What dark secrets will be revealed?

Overall, I'm sorry to say that this was a rather dull film. Although a solid enough story, there's nothing really engaging at all with this one. There are some nice moments every now and then including a rather unnerving S&M dream sequence and a genuinely funny off-screen appearance from a man from Mars (you have to watch to truly understand). Those moments are completely overshadowed by long, drawn out attempts at eroticism and clumsy erotic dancing (you may get a laugh out of those scenes). Fatou has no onscreen presence at all and it pretty much looks like she had no clue what she was doing except receiving a paycheck. The scenes involving Falk, although largely unrelated to the actual story are the highlights of the film just for the sheer absurdity. Aesthetically, this rather unimpressive. Lazy set design (clearly utilising not even a handful of locations) and horrendously out of focus cinematography make this is a visually unappealing film. Not even the female cast can make up for that because aside from Coll, there's literally no talent on show that's pleasing on the eye. Sure, that's probably a pig-headed thing to say, but even though this essentially a melodrama, Franco is still trying to titillate the audience with his signature close up shots and taste for good old-fashioned lesbianism. It misses the mark completely as a piece of erotica and drama. As much as I love Jess Franco (even for his downfalls), I really have to chalk this down as one of his worst. It's little wonder that Dietrich has now finally credited the film back to Franco.

The restoration is hit and miss. Some scenes look fantastic, but a lot the blacks in the film (especially the nightclub setting) can be very blocky with clear distortion. This is a cheap film anyway, so I won't whine too much. The sound is fairly solid throughout so that's not an issue. I would say that if you're going to pick this film up, don't be worried about HAVING to buy this on Blu-Ray because the film doesn't benefit from it too much. If you can save yourself a bit money, opt for the DVD release. On the disc itself the only language options available are a German dub (presented in both DTS-HD 5.1 and Dolby Digital 2.0) and English subtitles. In terms of extras you a selection of trailers including the original theatrical trailer for the film, a photo gallery, Jess Franco audio interview (Spanish with German subtitles) and the same Erik Falk featurette that appears on Mondo Erotico's release. Overall, as much as I didn't really enjoy the film, I have to give major credit to both Ascot Elite and Illusions UNLTD for presenting the die-hard Francophiles a little-seen gem that was initially credited to producer Erwin C. Dietrich. That's the only demographic I can really recommend this film and release to. Newcomers to the world of Jess Franco will be majorly unimpressed.

Weisse Haut auf schwarzen Schenkeln is available on DVD and Blu-Ray from Ascot Elite Home Entertainment and Illusions UNLTD.

6 Schwedinnen hinter Gittern (1980, dir: Ann Perry) Illusions UNLTD Blu-Ray Review

 Candide Royalle (Ultra Flesh) stars as Lolita Wanamaker, a young and attractive woman recently sentenced to a few years in prison. She immediately makes a good first impression. Neither the prison guards or her fellow inmates can't take their hands off her. The inmates are a close-knit group who go by the name of 'The Beavers'. When they aren't getting it on with each other, they're having their own fun with the prison staff. Seems like it's more of a holiday camp than a prison right? Wrong! You see, the girls have to live in squalid conditions and they've had enough! They do what all disgruntled prisoners usually do and sign a petition? Unfortunately for them, Warden Blowhard, played by Ian McGregor (Undercovers) is a tight-fisted and selfish chap. When he isn't being an arrogant prick, he's getting some extra service off his lovely secretary Miss Cole, played by Lisa De Leeuw (Center Spread Girls). After having a small riot, the inmates get a chance to have their voices heard properly, by having a baseball match with the prison guards who call themselves 'The Dicks'. Will the girls get their own way? Will the warden have a change of heart? You'll have to find out for yourself!

Overall, 6 Schwedinnen hinter Gittern (known to most as Ballgame) is light-hearted Women in Prison flick with a simple premise. Aside from some of the talent on show, this is a pretty uneventful film. The comedy is hokey and feels dated for even for when the film was produced. The likes of Candid Royalle, Herschel Savage (Debbie Does Dallas) and Tawny Pearl (Taboo) are really the only memorable aspects of the film. Not even the sex really held my interest. That being said, this film does have quite possibly the hottest training montage sequences I have seen in a long time (combining squat exercises with face sitting is something I want to see more!). I do also have to give props to the selection of library music used throughout. There are some fun and genuinely great songs for those who like that sort of thing (I certainly do!). Yeah, in terms of a Women in Prison film, it doesn't really deliver. As a piece of pornography, it's pretty hit and miss. Aside from the typical lesbian scenes, you may find yourself fast forwarding a few times. The film could have been trimmed down about 10 minutes to make it a 60 minute feature. Some may appreciate the film more than I did and I certainly know a lot of people who will love this.

Unfortunately, the Blu-ray transfer isn't fantastic. The picture is quite grainy and doesn't actually look like it's a Blu-Ray you are watching. To go with that, the English language track (the version I watched) is very muddy in places and a buzzing sound can be heard quite a lot throughout. That being said, the film also comes with a much superior German language track and English subtitles so that's not a problem. This is however a much better presentation than the Caballero disc so get rid of that one and buy this if you want to see this film. In terms of special features you get a trailer for the film, a photo gallery and a selection of other trailers (some great viewing there). Overall, it's a pretty standard release, but definitely worth looking in to if you are a fan of the genre. Just take in to account that you may be better off buying the DVD version of the film. Either way, hats off to Illusions UNTLD for presenting this film in an affordable way.

6 Schwedinnen hinter Gittern is available on DVD and Blu-Ray from Illusions UNLTD.

Ascot Elite Home Entertainment / Illusions UNLTD Blu-ray Review: Mondo Erotico (1976)

Mondo Erotico (In 80 Betten um die Welt)
(1976, dir: Jess Franco)

Ah, a Jess Franco Mondo film! Right off the bat I'm excited! Being a fan of efforts like Bruno Mattei's Libidomania, the idea of a sleazy Mondo film excites me and boy does uncle Jess deliver in his offering! Basically, the film is staged as a light night sex show (think Sexcetra, but miles better and hairier). Our hostess takes us around the world on a sexual journey starting in America. In New York we witness an exclusive Black Mass hosted by an overweight Siouxsie and the Banshees fan in a tiny room. Then it's a quick stop in San Fransisco to meet a prostitute awkwardly fondling and licking a flaccid dick before meeting a woman who enjoys the skin care benefits of semen (insert childish facial joke here). Once we are done with the States we travel to Copenhagen to enjoy a live sex show in the same small room clearly decorated differently. There's some audience participation done in the style of good old-fashioned bingo! Once that's over, it's time to visit Germany to meet Hamburg's most famous dominatrix. She's very open to interviews and is of course extremely modest! We get to witness one of her shows (guys may want to hold their balls for this sequence!). America and Europe is fun and all, but a change of scenery and climate is in order. Thankfully, we get treated to the golden sands of Agoa. A tropical paradise in which all the natives are pale!? Oh well, not to worry because we get to see how the locals deal with marriage. Let's just say that being a godfather has perks! Once Erik Falk (Ilsa the Mad Butcher) has his fun in the sun, we find ourselves in Amsterdam. It's time for sex education with a difference! So that's how you're supposed to masturbate! Very awkwardly! Not only that, but I know what an 'Aerodynamic Bitch' is! Once class has finished, blow up doll demonstrations and all, we finish off our journey on the Orient and experience some cosmic sexual intercourse, or is it sexual miming!?

Overall, Mondo Erotico is an odd and extremely entertaining film that is often silly and downright absurd! It's also both an intentionally and unintentionally effort. The budget was clearly tighter than the labias on show as it's clearly noticeable that both the cast and sets are used over and over. This especially entertaining with regards to the small interior set used for most of the set pieces and the Agoa sequence. Stock footage is inserted to give the impression that this is a globe-trotting effort, but you won't be fooled. The highlight for me has to be the sex education scene, I haven't been that amused in a while! If you want a trip, you're gonna love the final segment too! The film is very graphic in terms of sexual content even though it does seem that some parts are hardcore inserts shot separately, gotta love stunt cock! The film never takes itself too seriously. It's a jigsaw of elements we have come to love about Jess Franco films and the final picture is a well-rounded hardcore Mondo film that stands toe to toe with the best of them. If you are somewhat new to Jess Franco's work, this is a great example of him at his scuzziest. Don't get me wrong, it's far from 'extreme', but it's damn sleazy. That being said, there's a light-hearted tone to the film. Just a fun and enjoyable entry in to a genre that can get quite tedious (I'm looking at you Mondo Cane!).

The picture and sound quality are of a very high standard in my opinion. Of course, the nature of this production means that you are going to expect print damage, but it never detracts from the restoration. Hats off to those involved in the restoration! The film is presented in German with English subtitles. Overall, this is an extremely solid release for Francophiles and newcomers a like. In terms of extras we get a weird and wonderful featurette with Erik Falk revisiting some of his films and sharing stories as well as treating us to his philosophy on sex and sexuality. Not only that, there are plenty of trailers, a photo gallery and reversible artwork. The only downside is the Jess Franco audio interview which isn't English friendly. That being said, it's a tiny flaw which doesn't take anything away from this release at all. I have to say, of all the Ascot Elite releases, this is my favourite. A very noteworthy entry in to Jess Franco's filmography that has received a fantastic release!

Mondo Erotico is available on DVD and Blu-Ray from Ascot Elite Home Entertainment and Illusions UNLTD.

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Vinegar Syndrome Review: Hot & Saucy Pizza Girls (1978, dir: Bob Chinn)

HOT & SAUCY PIZZA GIRLS

(dir: Bob Chinn, 1978)

“We Deliver!!!”

 

We all love pizza right? Sometimes there's nothing better than kicking back on a lazy weekend evening, sinking some beers and ordering from your nearest pizza joint. Sometimes the service can be quite lousy, but every now and then they go above and beyond to deliver customer satisfaction. Thankfully, John over at Country Girl Pizza does exactly just that. John, played by John Holmes (ERUPTION, JOHNNY WADD) not only provides you with inches of pleasure (the puns in the film are worse), but also uses his pizza parlour as a front for his escort service. Yep, it's service with a smile and happy ending if you're willing to tip! His hot pant and rollerblading clad staff include Gina, Shakey, Celeste and bubbly newcomer Ann Chovy (get it?) played by Candida Royalle (JUNGLE BLUE, MASTERPIECE), Laurien Dominique (DOING IT!, CALENDER GIRL), Christine De Shaffer (BLACK LOLITA, EAGER BEAVER) and Desiree Cousteau (PRETTY PEACHES, HOT RACKETS) respectively. Business is going great for John, but it's all put in jeopardy thanks to a creepy trench coat wearing inspector played by John Seeman (NIGHT PLEASURES, FANTASY IN BLUE) who is hot on the case of the illegal operation. To make matters worse, Berkeley is a fried chicken kinda city so a couple of big boys in the fast food business aren't happy and enlist the help of the infamous Night Chicken to send a message to John and his girls. Yep, the cards aren't exactly in John's favour. Will he and his band of scantily clad cuties overcome the fuzz and the infamous chicken rapist? Or will his hopes and dreams be burnt to a crisp?

  Hot & Saucy Pizza Girls is a thoroughly enjoyable piece of adult comedy. The film never takes itself too seriously and is light hearted. Sure, the comedy is low brow and there are plenty of puns, but I did find myself genuinely laughing and smiling at the humour. The story is solid with a few absurd twists and turns that work. Sometimes, the action in films like this can get in the way, but as with a lot of Chinn's work, the actual sex aspect plays in to the actual story as opposed to being a story shoe horned in between sex. Speaking of which, the action is of high quality and never overly long. As much as I love classic adult cinema, I do tend to get bored when scenes linger on too long. Thankfully, Chinn knows how to craft an actual film. The performances are good, Cousteau plays naive and bubbly perfectly, some may say that it's a bit too campy or hammy, but for the film it works perfectly. The talent on display is very pleasing on the eye indeed, but Costeau unsurprisingly steals the show. Seeing her go on and on whilst she's tending to a customer is a fun highlight. Another aspect I enjoy is this is more than just a film shot in the same place just dressed differently for each scene, Chinn utilises a genuine looking pizza place and the locations are dressed like actual domestic locations.

  Overall, the film is yet another solid effort from Bob Chinn. The film has a lot to offer and does exactly what it sets out to do, entertain and titillate. Everyone involved puts in a great effort and I would say the film is a legitimate comedy. I could definitely see this working as an R-rated film as well as a piece of porn (not too sure if there was a softer version available). It may not be for everyone, but if you want a light hearted effort, this is definitely a film you should seek out. If you are a newcomer to the genre or Chinn's work, this is a great starting point. There's a genuine sense of art to it. You also get the likes of John Holmes and Desiree Cousteau, which can never be a bad thing! This is one of those rare occasions were I see myself watching this film again multiple times in the future.

Once again, Vinegar Syndrome has done a great job with this release. The film is presented in 1.85:1 and has been restored for the first time completely uncut on DVD. The film looks and sounds great and compliments the high quality of the original production. In terms of extras we also get the theatrical trailer and a rather insightful and entertaining interview with Damon Christian (RHINESTONE COWGIRLS, BUBBLE GUM), the executive producer of the film. All in all, it's another win from Vinegar Syndrome. Go buy it now, maybe even order yourself a pizza! Luckily there is Thai massage parlour and pizza joint nearby, maybe I can experience Hot & Saucy Pizza Girls for myself? Wait! What!?

Hot & Saucy Pizza Girls is available directly from Vinegar Syndrome here as well as your favourite online retailers.

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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!

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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.