How To Seduce A Virgin (1973) (DVD Review)
Directed By: Jess Franco
Starring: Robert Woods, Alice Arno, Lina Romay
Rated: UR/Region 1/Full Screen/Number of Discs 1
Available from Mondo Macabro
The beautiful Countess Martine de Bressac is released from the expensive asylum where she was incarcerated after castrating her former lover. She returns to her luxurious villa on the coast and goes at once down into her private underground dungeon. It’s here that she indulges herself in the perverse sexual practices that give her life meaning, surrounded by the bizarre human statues of her previous victims. Her husband, Charles, feeds his wife’s sick fantasies, aware that she is his meal ticket to a life of luxury. He announces that he has a new game for her – they will befriend and seduce the young and virginal daughter of a rich neighbor. But things do not go exactly as planned… Games of decadence and debauchery lead to mayhem and murder. From cult director Jess Franco. His most outrageous film. First ever US release.
There is apparently a virgin here in a Jess Franco movie. And, we know we can’t have that now can we? This weird and erotic film from Jess Franco follows some equally weird people as they find a virgin and try to have sex with her! The film pretty much follows that tone, but tosses in some weird stuff and some minor horror elements for good measure. As the movie moves along murder takes the place of foreplay and it is all done with the directing eye of Jess Franco, which means you will love it or hate it depending on if you love or hate Jess Franco.
Franco’s wife Lina Romay plays a role in this. It is ALWAYS nice to see that beautiful lady on screen. While other character might take front and center, I think she is probably the best overall eye candy of the film. While you get tons of nudity and the such, the movie does come across a little weak. The plot moves slowly and it might just be too much start and stall for most people’s liking. You Franco fanatics have another one to add to the collection, but those of you who aren’t into Jess might want to sit this one out.
– Brand new transfer from film negative
– Interview with writer Alain Petit
– Introduction by critic Stephen Thrower
– Newly created optional subtitles
– Extensive production notes
– Mondo Macabro previews
