Customer Reviews

Lady Libertine

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

The novel on which this movie is based is widely regarded as a classic of Victorian erotica, which mostly seems to be focused on whipping, with other activities as a sideline rather than the main course.

This movie, on the other hand, qualifies as the modern term "romantica" - romantic erotica. Jennifer Inch shines as "Frank." New to the world and shy, we get to watch this young lady as she discovers the joys and sorrows of being a woman and finally arriving at love with a man who cherishes her. Jennifer is charming and beautiful, making every scene she's in a delight.

This is a "couples movie" without a doubt. The ladies will appreciate the growing regard "Frank" and Charles develop for each other, and their menfolk will enjoy the "skinemax." I'm absolutely thrilled this one is finally out on a superb quality transfer to DVD.

The Victorian novel this flick was based on was better done, and the central theme, of the main character's "love of the rod" was played down, but it was pretty, and the actresses beautiful, certainly. In fact, when the character of Frances was presented as a woman, she looks exactly like a sober Britney Spears (though the film was shot about the time Ms. Spears was born.)

This is a pretty bad movie. Basically it's a kind of historical soft porn, set in some vague time between maybe 1780 and 1900 (and towards the earlier, I think) - I can almost hear some brainless enthusiast saying "You know, the olden days.."

Others have commented on the ridiculous plot, where the young woman dressed as a boy wouldn't fool anyone with normal vision. The face alone is totally feminine, never mind any other imperfectly concealed geographical features.

And I don't even remember what the erotic episodes looked like! Had to resort to fast-forward in the more boring parts.

So why two stars instead of one? Because there are some really attractive scene settings, quite enjoyable to look at, and for anyone who likes elegant clothes, the men's wardrobes are a treat! Sometimes I wish we could dress like that today. Of course, it implies a large servant class to track of all the different items - the vests, cravats, lace, ruffles, buckles, etc etc. not to mention the perpetual cleaning and ironing. Also, you'd want to be a person not harried by the pressure of time, since you would not get dressed in the time it takes you today to pull on a pair of Dockers and a polo shirt.

As you may have gathered, I am one who somewhat regrets the spread of "business casual" in the office. Not one of those who harbor a deep animosity against that pleasantly colorful item, the tie. I have 30+ hanging in my closet that never see any use...seems like a waste. Oh well.

If this review seems to have rambled rather far from its subject, it's simply because there isn't much there to write about!

A brainless T&A flick that demeans women. See-through plot devoid of motivation.