Time To Head To Italy For A Good Scare!

Some of the most inventive thrillers ever made came from Italy, during a time when the “giallo” film was at its height – just in time for Halloween, welcome to the bloody world of the Italian sex shocker!

Let’s begin with a film that was so controversial it landed the Director in court, facing prison time! It’s all because of this:

“In the annals of the abnormal there is no more erotic nightmare than the strange lusts of a…

Lizard In A Woman’s Skin!”

One of the most legendary Italian sex shockers is also one of the most controversial! Here is the plot: Florinda Bolkan plays the daughter of a prominant English politician who keeps having recurring “nightmares” in which she makes love to a bisexual nympho who lives downstairs and conducts all-night LSD orgies!

That’s Right: ALL-NIGHT LSD ORGIES!

Anyone who has nightmares involving a bisexual nymph is just looking for trouble! FYI, the film was released in the US as “Schizoid”, which she certainly was! When the nocturnal wet dreams become murderous, the neighbor turns up dead, and Florinda is the main suspect. Did she actually commit the murder she dreamt about?

And Who Is This “Giallo?”

“Giallo” is a 20th-century Italian genre of literature and film. In Italy, the term denotes thrillers, typically of the crime fiction, mystery, and horror categories. “Giallo” refers to a style of murder mystery film which includes lots of horror, eroticism and sex! Here is what one of the books looks like:

As you can see, it’s a lurid “come-on” to the reader, or in this case, to the moviegoer…and “Lizard In A Woman’s Skin” is a perfect fit as well, as it’s a sex shocker with a title as lurid as the style of filmmaking…

The Master! Director Lucio Fulci!

The Director of the movie was Lucio Fulci, one of Italy’s great horror filmmakers.

Among his films was this classic of the genre:

The Director was such a master of shock that a judge threatened to throw him in jail!

One such shocking scene in “Lizard’s Skin” involves a room full of disemboweled dogs. Director Fulci was nearly sent to prison because it was believed that the dogs were real and Fulci had allowed animal cruelty on the film! Crew members had to testify in court that the “dogs” were indeed fake and no animals had ever been harmed. Special effects artist Carlo Rambaldi even presented the dog props in court to convince the jury. This was the first time that an effects artist had to testify in court that their work was fake!

You can read more about the film, along with a look at the blu-ray release’s extended features, by clicking on this great website, “Mondo Digital”:

http://www.mondo-digital.com/lizard.html

And you can read more about the genre of italian giallo, with films like this:

One of Italy’s greatest Giallo Directors was Dario Argento, read all about him here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/10/09/halloween-giallo-masters-agentos-animal-trilogy-fulcis-tortured-ducklings-italian-pulp-fiction/

So now you are getting warmed up to this incredibly entertaining film genre…and want to take it to a whole new level:

Yes, as the 70’s progressed, the genre got even more shocking – you can read all about this classic of the genre by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/07/09/time-to-strip-nude-four-flies-and-baba-yaga-to-you-yes-its-classic-italian-giallo/

There are so many more…here are some great posters that capture the energy of the genre:

And the 70’s were a great time for another Italian film genre as well:

Yes, the Italian crime drama thrived in the 70’s and here is a great documentary that looks at the classic films of the 70’s:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/01/19/italian-mobsters-sex-kittens-euro-crime-the-italian-dirty-harry-classic-70s-euro-crime/

Let me know how many of these classic shockers you’ve seen!

“A ballad of the ’60’s said, ‘I left my heart in San Francisco’. Now in the ’70’s it is possible to leave one’s soul there as well.”

How can you NOT love a film that includes that line? Remember, not all films are destined to be Best Picture! Some have a “different” agenda:

It’s Time To Celebrate Halloween Season – NAKED!

Yes, NAKED! And that means a look at some of the wildest horror films of the early 70’s!

Can You Handle “The Virgin Witch?” How About THIS?”

“A wild, weird world of bizarre practices and savage pleasure actually filmed as they exist today in the cities and suburbs of our civilization!”

No Halloween season is complete without a look at some of the cheesiest, most exploitative movies ever released!

There was a time when these films were shown in classic “grind houses”, where sexploitation movies were shown all day and night to a “less discerning” audience!

Movies like this:

“The Virgin Witch!”

First, check out this classic trailer:

Thanks to “Sleaze-O-Rama” on YouTube for posting this trailer, which only hints at the madness of this movie!

It all begins innocently enough: Christine and her sister Betty go to a castle for a weekend modeling assignment. But guess what? She’s been lured there as a virgin for induction into a witch’s coven!

Well, you can imagine how much nudity comes from this setup! It’s a classic horror setup: lured into a world of black magic…where do they get these ideas?

How about from here!

The Madness Of “Witchcraft ’70”!

Yes, “Witchcraft” is all around us, and there’s a movie that shows it all to you!
Here’s a lurid expose about witchcraft around the world – first, watch this over-the-top trailer!

“Witchcraft ’70” is a “hidden camera”-style report of satanic rites from around the world. The movie dares to expose the audience to devil worshipping, voodoo cults, the church of satan, black magic, naked exorcism and pagan rituals!

The film is filled with great narration like this:

“A ballad of the ’60’s said, ‘I left my heart in San Francisco’. Now in the ’70’s it is possible to leave one’s soul there as well.”

And it appears they left their clothes there too!

And just to spice things up, how about this narration from the film:

“The night air carries the stench of flames, sex and an acrid unnatural sweat.”

These films used a variety of footage from around the world to make their case that “Witchcraft” was everywhere – including your movie theater!

Leave me a comment if you’ve seen either of these classic exploitation films, and if you want to go full on “naked” horror for the holiday, try this!

Yes, there was a time when all vampires were naked – an era in filmmaking that lives on thanks to DVD and blu-ray! Read all about these naked vampires by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/10/03/naked-vampires-dirty-dracula-cult-erotic-halloween-horror/

These films are really good, by the way – and remember that some of Hollywood’s biggest stars tried to replicate their success:

Remember the erotic horror of “The Hunger?” Read my story about this 80’s vampire erotic horror film by clicking here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/03/11/the-hunger-sex-blood-bowie-new-music-lusting-for-vampires/

“The Hunger” took erotic horror to the mainstream, but in the 70’s, you could only find it here:

If you want to learn more about the wacky world of “grind house” cinema, read my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/06/12/dirty-keyholes-immoral-wives-the-naked-truth-about-cult-grindhouse-cinema/

Let me know if you’ve experienced “The Virgin Witch!”

Time For Another Bloody, Campy, Sexy Halloween Treat!

How can you NOT love a movie that has this tag line:

“They Charge An Arm And A Leg!”

And a “subtle” poster like this!

Time To Celebrate The Bloody Fun Of “Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers!”

Yes, the title should tell you how “tongue in bloody cheek” this film is, but that’s what makes it a classic! First, check out this vintage movie trailer – oh, be warned that it is full of sex, nudity and blood – everything that makes Halloween great!

Here is the film’s plot, courtesy of the great website “DVD Drive-in”:

“On the hunt for runaway Oxnard teenager Samantha, Los Angeles private detective Jack Chandler stumbles across an LAPD investigation into a series of chainsaw serial killings when thinks homicide detective Harrison’s “Cuisinart Queen” suspect – caught “making Chicken McNuggets with a chainsaw” – might be the missing girl!”

“Chicken McNuggets With A Chainsaw”!

First of all, bravo to the modern scream queen Linnea Quigley, who gives a terrific performance in the film! The late 80’s were a delirious time for low-budget filmmaking…from “Re-Animator” to “Chainsaw Hookers”, movies were trying to keep the spirit of the drive-in alive – just bloodier, sexier and with a knowing wink to the audience!

Director Fred Olen Ray had already directed a few movies prior to “HOLLYWOOD CHAINSAW HOOKERS” – but according to DVD Drive-In, “Hookers” was filmed in five days!

Greg Kenner’s “MovieTime” Moment!

DVD Drive-In also reports there is a great “extra” on the blu-ray release: a vintage “MovieTime Hollywood Premiere” (3:53) in which later Oscar-nominated actor Greg Kinnear pays his dues condescendingly covering the film’s premiere interviewing Quigley, Wildsmith, Camp Video’s Jim Goff, Sybil Danning (who is “always interested in a seeing a good documentary”), and cabaret act “Les Stevens and the Lovely Carol”.

As one of the folks who worked at MovieTime in the day, this is a great piece of nostalgia!

Read the entire review on DVD Drive-in’s website here:

http://www.dvddrive-in.com/reviews/e-h/hollywoodchainsawhookersblu.htm

And don’t forget to gas up for some fun this Halloween!

Are you also looking for more great Halloween options?

Why not start with America’s reigning “Scream Queen?”

Jamie Lee Curtis starred in some of the best “Halloween slashers” of all time – including of course “Halloween!”

Click here for all of her greatest hits:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/10/21/jamie-lee-curtis-a-scream-queens-terror-trilogy-great-halloween-horror/

And if you just want to be scared – you know, like this kind of scared:

Then you need to check out my most shocking Halloween movies of all time…

http://johnrieber.com/2014/10/01/shocks-scares-chainsaws-the-best-halloween-horror-2014/

If you just want to remember some of the campiest horror films – then you need to check out this classic by the legendary Vincent Price:

Here is a look at the classic “Dr. Phibes” movies from the early 70’s, and the raucous world of the “Midnight movie” – click here to read all about it:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/10/22/drunken-dr-phibes-horrors-abominable-midnight-madness/

And let me know what your favorite Halloween film is!

Smile! It’s Halloween!

It’s my favorite time of year – when the scariest films of all time return to my TV screen! Everyone has a favorite horror film – you know, one that really scares you…and modern cinema has given us SO many incredible images to shake us up…

You get the idea – there are old classics and new favorites – all created to scare the hell out of you this Halloween season – I wanted to share some of my favorite horror films…and also highlight some lesser known films that deserve to be seen!

More on these incredible Twin Horror Directors in a moment, but first, we begin with what is, without question, the greatest horror film ever made – one that forced viewers to flee the theater because it was too much to watch!

Time To Celebrate “The Exorcist!”

I think this is the scariest film ever made…and without a doubt the greatest horror film of all.

Here is the original trailer, that only hinted at the intensity of this film:

In the more than forty years since it was released, “The Exorcist” has remained one of the most shocking films ever released….because of moments like this:

And of course, there is a scene that will never be forgotten – a scene that continues to shock an audience:

“Cue The Soup!”

The moment that little Regan unloads gallons of green liquid onto her guests is a legendary horror scene…but equally entertaining is the banter that the demon has with Fathere Damien:

Demon: What an excellent day for an exorcism.
Father Damien Karras: You would like that?
Demon: Intensely.
Father Damien Karras: But wouldn’t that drive you out of Regan?
Demon: It would bring us together.
Father Damien Karras: You and Regan?
Demon: You and us.

Great “Exorcist” Trivia!

Here is some great trivia about the film:

The refrigerated bedroom set was cooled with four air conditioners and temperatures would plunge to around 30 to 40 below zero. It was so cold that perspiration would freeze on some of the cast and crew. On one occasion the air was saturated with moisture resulting in a thin layer of snow falling on the set before the crew arrived for filming.

Oh yeah, and then there is the “head turn” sequence! As you can see in this picture, little Regan is holding a crucifix for all the wrong reasons…another scene that was so shocking that audience members fled the theaters when it was playing – this type of horror reaction just doesn’t happen any more!

This film is so intense and scary that the original teaser trailer, which consisted of nothing but images of the white-faced demon quickly flashing in and out of darkness, was banned in many theaters, as it was deemed “too frightening”.

And then of course, there is the projectile vomiting scene!

The substance that possessed Linda Blair hurls at Father Damien Karras is thick pea soup. Specifically, it’s Andersen’s brand pea soup. The crew tried Campbell’s but didn’t like the “effect.”

Tons of great stories and commentaries on the special edition blu-ray….check it out and relive a classic!

Of course, “The Exorcist” wasn’t the first movie to feature of child acting up…in fact, some evil begins before the baby is even born!

“Rosemary’s Baby!”

Mia Farrow’s performance as a young pregnant wife who feels something isn’t right with her new baby is the glue that holds this shocking classic together…

Roman Polanski’s horror film lives up to the hype – get a bunch of great behind-the-scenes stories about the movie here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/10/26/rosemarys-baby-jessicas-scared-to-death-great-halloween-horror/

One of the greatest horror films of all time began as a Stephen King novel – his first novel in fact, and still the greatest film ever made from one of his books!

Classic “Carrie!”

One of the greatest honor films ever made is by the Master of Suspense, Director Brian DePalma!

The story of young Carrie White, ostracized in high school and tormented by her religious fanatic of a mother, is one of horror’s greatest achievements. Here is a bun of fun trivia about the movie, and a look at five of Brian DePalma’s greatest thriller!

http://johnrieber.com/2012/03/13/carrie-and-more-5-classic-brian-depalma-thrillers/

Of course, by the end of the 70’s, one film because the new standard for horror:

It was the night that “HE” came home! Director John Carpenter’s classic horror film made Jamie Lee Curtis the reigning “Scream Queen”…

“Terror Train!”

Another of Jamie’s great thrill rides was on “Terror Train”! If you want to celebrate the “slash-tacular” horror films of the 80’s – and read about some great “Halloween” trivia, then check some of the best right here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/02/15/slash-goes-the-horror-time-for-the-bloody-splat-acular-80s/

For many, the face of horror changed forever when THIS guy showed up:

Say Hello To “Leatherface!”

It is one of the most unsettling films ever made – “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” introduced audiences to “Leatherface” – based on real events that shocked the nation. He is, without a doubt, one of cinema’s greatest horror characters…read about him here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/10/01/shocks-scares-chainsaws-the-best-halloween-horror-2014/

There is a lot of great new horror being made – not the creepy “found” footage stuff of “Paranormal Activity” and the like, but classic horror stuff with a fresh new twist like this:

Meet The Soska Sisters!

There’s a fresh new voice in cinema today, thanks to the Soska Sisters, who are making creepy, bloody horror films like “American Mary” – and they love to acknowledge their influences, like this picture that pays homage to “The Shining”:

The Soskas are currently hosting the horror game show “Hellavator” on GSN! If you want to read about their films, check out my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/06/07/modern-horror-twin-directors-the-soska-sisters-american-mary-dead-hooker-in-a-trunk/

So there you go, have a great night of shocks and screams!

“It’s too bad we had to kill her. I really liked the outfit she had on.”

Time For Some Cult Camp Classics – With Cinema’s Reigning Cult “Scream Queen!”

I love Linnea Quigley! Her movies are some of the most entertaining cult movies of the 80’s!

Linnea Quigley is best known for an incredible run of 80’s horror films, and became America’s most legendary “Scream Queen!”

Her breakout role was in the 1981 slasher film, “Graduation Day”, followed by ” Savage Streets”, “Silent Night, Deadly Night” and “Nightmare Sisters”…where she always managed to stay very clean!

A Scream Queen “Legend” Is Born!

Quigley had a number of films to her name by the mid-80’s, making a name for herself and building up a loyal fan base. And then, it was time to “rock it” to the big time!

Linnea Shows Off Her Talent!

Yes, that’s a very naked Linnea Quigley dancing in a graveyard in the hit movie “The Return Of The Living Dead!”

In 1985, Quigley broke out big time with her sexy “dance with the dead” – she played teenage punk “Trash”!

Here is the trailer for this 80’s horror camp classic:

Linnea’s Camp Horror Trifecta!

“Return Of The Living Dead” made Quigley a star, but for me, 1988 was the year she became America’s “Scream Queen” forever!

In 1988, Quigley starred in the “perfect storm” of evil – three 80’s horror classics, beginning with a movie that screams 80’s excess – even in its title!

“Sorority Babes In The Slimeball Bowl-A-Rama!”

What makes this movie perfect is, of course, the title – not just for using the word “Slimeball”, but because it was originally known as “The Imp!”

Yes, the plot of this film is simple: sorority babes worship an Imp that grants deadly wishes. And it had this classic line:

“It’s too bad we had to kill her. I really liked the outfit she had on.”

Check out the somewhat annoying trailer:

Campy? Sure! A whole lot of fun to watch! Absolutely! Next up is another 80’s horror classic:

“Night Of The Demons!”

Talk about a film that completely captures the spirit of horror in the 80’s!

Here is the trailer for “Night Of The Demons”:

Once again, Quigley steals the film, which is a “kids go to party and die instead” setup, this time in an abandoned funeral parlor. Quigley’s imaginative use of lipstick, plus some well-placed nudity, was all it took for the film to be a huge hit!

According to IMDB, Linnea and special effects artist Steve Johnson met when she came in to get the mold for her fake breasts done! They were later married.

And finally, 1988 finished off with one of the wildest films she’d ever starred in!

“Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers!”

Another of the greatest movie titles of all time, and a really fun horror film that delivers lots of blood, gore and sex!

If you want to see the movie’s wild wild trailer, and lots more about the film, click on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/10/21/hollywood-chainsaw-hookers-greg-kinnears-movietime-premiere-shocking-halloween-2015-horror/

The 80’s were the height of Quigley’s “scream queen” career, but she continues to act and make personal appearances…and she’s also a great Author!

Quigley has written three books; “The Linnea Quigley Bio & Chainsaw Book”, “I’m Screaming as Fast as I Can: My Life in B-Movies” and “Skin”…check them out at Amazon!

Also, follow Linnea at her official website:

http://www.linnea-quigley.com

Kudos to Linnea Quigley for entertaining millions of fans over the years…another Hollywood Sex Kitten who has brains as well….

Speaking of smart, empowered women in Hollywood, Mamie Van Doren is a great story as well…read all about her incredible career here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/07/07/mamie-van-doren-legendary-hollywood-sex-kitten-untamed-sex-symbol/

Some of my favorite posts are those that pay tribute to some of Hollywood’s enduring sex kittens…one of the most successful is Ann-Margret:

Margret went from singing with Elvis to writhing around in baked beans for The Who! Read all about it here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/11/23/hollywoods-legendary-sex-kitten-ann-margret-rock-operas-baked-beans-elvis/

And finally, here is the story of a lesser known Starlet, who ended up as one of 007’s Bond girls!

Read all about Barbara Bouchet by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/04/29/classic-sex-kitten-james-bonds-sexy-co-star-barbara-bouchet/

And make sure you watch some “Scream Queen” classics too!

Wait Until You See This Amazing Movie Nightclub Mashup!

Yes, Darth Vader and Pilot Ted Striker go head to head in one of the most amazing movie mashups ever made!

Imagine taking the most iconic nightclub scenes from film and putting them all together into one big:

“Hell’s Club!”

Bravo to Antonio Maria da Silva!

Here is what I found at “Someecards.com”: “Antonio Maria da Silva is a film editor par excellence. Based in Paris, his movie mashups combine footage from classic films so smoothly, it can be hard to tell where the cuts are. In the past, he’s brought us treats like Terminator vs. Robocop and Bruce Lee vs. Bruce Lee, but Hell’s Club has to be his masterwork.”

Yes, da Silva took short nightclub scenes from movies as diverse as “Star Wars: Revenge Of The Sith”, “Carlito’s Way”, “Boogie Nights”, “Saturday Night Fever” and “Airplane” and turned it into an amazing seamless journey into a place called “Hell’s Club!”

Yes, you can now head to a party with Tony Montana, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and John Travolta – with a lot of red light as well! Here is this amazingly creative mashup!

Bravo to da Silva for this masterwork, I hope it’s not pulled down off the internet! And you can read more about it at this site where I found it posted:

http://www.someecards.com/entertainment/movies/movie-mashup-scene-hells-club/

The mashup reminded me of how much I love some of the movies shown here, such as:

“Boogie Nights!”

One of the best films ever made, and plenty of nightclub action! Read the “oral” history of the movie by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/12/11/dirk-digglers-livin-thing-70s-sex-80s-excess-the-oral-history-of-boogie-nights/

And nightclubs also have bathrooms, so when I saw the “Transpotting” scenes in the mashup, I immediately thought of this:

Yes, the film had the worst toilet in Scotland! Here is my look at all of the best bathroom scenes in film:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/03/06/going-to-the-toilet-the-craziest-bathroom-scenes-in-the-movies/

And finally, after seeing Ted Striker, I remembered the funniest film ever made:

You can relive all of the best moments by reading this oral history of the movie..just click here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/04/28/shirley-you-cant-be-serious-the-oral-history-of-airplane/

And let me know if da Silva left out any other great nightclub movie moments!

In honor of the new James Bond film, I offer you this:

“We guarantee a laugh a minute in the zaniest film you’ve EVER seen!”

How can you argue with a “laugh a minute?” Especially when it’s from one of James Bond’s best Directors!

Time to look at a classic British sex comedy, shaken NOT stirred!

Here’s the plot: a scriptwriter, a producer and a director are called in by Benny Murdoch, an exotic movie producer. He wants to make a new erotic movie starring a big woman – “Eskimo Nell!”

As with all classic sex farces, there are plenty of problems. The scriptwriter is a virgin, and each of the three main big $$$ Investors want a different type of movie – one wants a western, another demands an erotic drama, and the last wants a kung-fu movie!

This is classic British sex farce, which means Monty Python-type comedy and lots of nudity!

You either appreciate this kind of manic farce or you don’t…but here’s one guy who did!

As you can see Producer Stanley Long was proud to show off his credit:

Take “Eskimo Nell” Home To Mom!

Eskimo Nell was recently released in a ‘special edition’ DVD and Blu-ray, with several extra features…but the biggest “extra” about this film is who directed it!

Campbell! Martin Campbell! 007’s Savior – TWICE!

Director Martin Campbell may not have made the greatest British sex comedy of all time, but he did a lot more – 007 times more! Yes, he directed TWO classic James Bond movies, introducing new Bonds each time!

In 1995, Campbell introduced a new James Bond – Pierce Brosnan – to movie audiences with the terrific “Goldeneye”…a fast-paced thriller that brought Bond back from the dead…and then in 2006, Campbell did it again, with one of the best Bond films of all:

Campbell’s “Casino Royale” introduced Daniel Craig as a brutal 007 – really saving the franchise again from the lethargic “Die Another Day”…if you disagree, check out all of my best and WORST Bond movies here…

http://johnrieber.com/2013/09/24/his-name-is-bond-james-bond-the-best-007-ever-the-worst-film-fight-club-begins-now/

Kudos to Martin Campbell for “Eskimo Nell” and “Miss Moneypenny” – all in one career!

The genre of British sex comedy has a long and varied history…with that, I introduce you to the “upstairs downstairs” shenanigans of:

“What The Butler Did….And Did…And Did!”

Time to see if the Butler did, in fact, DO IT….

Keep It Up Downstairs!

Check out the trailer:

This is another classic British sex farce! Well-known Actress Diana Dors and adult superstar Mary Millington star in a vintage British sex comedy!

This is an obvious parody of “Upstairs Downstairs”, the classic British drama about the lives of two very different social castes in England. As the movie promo says:

“See a host of stars shedding their Edwardian costumes to save the family silver!”

Well then, if you need more of an education about those randy Brits, I suggest you start here:

The British “Confessions Of…” films are a hilarious look at 70’s England – check them all out here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/09/30/confessions-of-the-sex-obsessed-british-70s-cult-sex-comedies-are-back/

Let me know what you think of this sexy British invasion!

In the mood for a film that includes a striptease IN FRONT OF A PARROT – yes,THIS movie?

Before I share the title, I want to share a review….because I love any movie that is reviewed with this line:

“…Well worth watching late at night when your critical defenses have been lowered.”

Of COURSE it’s referring to Director Jess Franco!

Franco was one of cinema’s most unique voices, and yes, you MUST lower your “critical defenses” to enjoy his classic sexploitation movies like these:

Those movie posters are just the tip of the Jess Franco madness – this is a guy who loves to make crazy films!

And now, you can enjoy Franco’s “lost” Zombie movie – with a bonus striptease in front of a parrot – and a second feature thrown in to boot!

Time To Dive Into The Zombie Madness Of “Devil Hunter!”

Here’s a quote from the movie:

“It was just like this place… all those bombs. Oh! Oh my poor head. I hate the jungle and its humidity!”

Check out the trailer:

Thanks to “RareCultCinema” for sharing this on youtube!

Here’s what you are in for when you dive into “Devil Hunter!” First, check out this zombie!

Here’s how Severin films describes the movie: “King Of EuroSleaze Jess Franco takes on the ’80s Cannibal genre and delivers a jungle sickie like no other! When a safari of sexy babes and violent boneheads ventures into native-crazed wilderness, Uncle Jess unleashes a deluge of relentless nudity, dubious anthropology and his own brand of cut-rate carnage.”

Well who can argue with that!

“Devil Hunter” had a lot of fun titles over the years, such as “Sexo Cannibal” and “Mandingo Manhunter!”

The “Lost” Parrot Striptease!

Folks, this is exploitation filmmaking at its finest! And thanks to Severin films, you can watch “Devil Hunter” on blu-ray UNCUT – As “Mondo Digital” reports, “extras include the bongo-riffic theatrical trailer and a bonus “spicy” scene with ‘Lorna the Exorcist’s Pamela Stanford doing a topless striptease in front of a parrot, which was removed from the film for reasons only the Eurocult gods will ever decipher!”

Not only can you rejoice in the delicious depravity that is “Devil Hunter”, Severin has decided to up the ante with a second feature!

Cannibal Terror!

Yes, a bonus film, so you can have a double bill of bad! If the poster isn’t enough to tell you how “WRONG” this movie is, try the trailer!

Well, you already see where this is going: a pair of criminal knuckleheads and their very sexy female friend kidnap the young daughter of a wealthy tycoon – and of course, they foolishly choose to hide in a local jungle infested with ferocious cannibals!

Now, because this is meant to offend EVERYONE who goes to the movies, there is not only violence but lots and lots of nudity and sexual situations as well!

Bravo to Severin films once again for finding some of the wildest exploitation to share with the world!

And Mondo Digital has a great review on both, check it out here:

http://www.mondo-digital.com/cannibalterror.html

Now, back to the legendary Jess Franco…

This is the cover for a film he directed STARRING HIS WIFE….let me say it again; STARRING HIS WIFE…

Read all about the X-rated madness of Linda and her shocking nights by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/03/11/lindas-shocking-hot-nights-lina-romays-classic-sexploitation/

RIP Jess Franco!

Both Lina Romay and Director Jess Franco have left us much too soon…they made some wacky and wild films for exploitation fans to enjoy…with Romay naked most of the time…

But they were strangely entertaining, and Romay and Franco have a ton of movie fans…which is why so many of their movies live on today…read about them here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/02/17/countess-perverse-lorna-the-exorcist-jess-francos-naked-masterpieces/

And let me know if you’ve taken a trip with Franco’s “Devil Hunter!”

In The Mood For A Movie?

Nothing more enjoyable than finding a seat and experiencing some memorable cinema…and if you want it to be VERY MEMORABLE, then take a walk down this street!

In the 70’s and the early part of the 80’s, New York’s time square was filled with “grind houses”, movie theaters that churned out exploitation movies to young men seeking a cheap thrill…I find this era fascinating because these theaters were filled with movies that catered to young, impressionable men who could be lured into the theater by ads like these…

Films like “Exposed” promised to do just that – and savvy movie Producers made a lot of money by catering to every young man’s fantasy, especially when it came to Cheerleaders…

Rah! Rah! Rah!

X-rated films about Cheerleaders offered plenty of nudity, and laughs as well, as the movies made as much fun of themselves as they did of the audience who watched them…

David Hasselhoff As “Boner!”

Yes, even David Hasselhoff appeared in these movies…you can read my story about these films – and “the Hoff” – by clicking here…

http://johnrieber.com/2015/02/19/cheerleaders-pom-pom-girls-david-hasselhoff-as-boner-cult-classics-rah-rah-rah/

Another sub-culture of film that was hugely popular in the 70’s and 80’s dealt with another group of young women who had no problem making you feel better…

The Student Nurses – “They’re Learning Fast!”

Yes, let’s look at some of the most entertaining sexploitation movies that focused on nurses…whether they were in school “learning fast”, or doing a little extra “private duty”…

Private Duty Nurses – “It’s What They Do OFF Duty That’s Really Private!”

As you can see, these movies promised lots of sex – these movie posters are hilariously obvious – but they worked!

The Young Nurses – “It’s My Body, Doctor – NOT Your Laboratory!”

These posters are obvious: the movie promises sex, nudity and more sex!

Check out this classic trailer:

In the 70’s, drive-in movies were the rage, and guys could pile into a car and watch a double or even triple-features, all about nurses!

Candy Stripe Nurses! – “They’ll Give You Fast-Fast-Fast Relief!”

The movies may have seemed very similar, but who cares? Here is the decidedly NSFW trailer:

Of course, you can only be in nursing school, or in a hospital for so long, so what do you do? Add violence!

I love this movie, which includes a nurse with a machine gun!

Nurses For Sale – “Kidnapped, Abused & Tormented – Held For The Highest Price!”

So if you can’t watch them work, then watch them fight back against kidnappers! This genre of film became so popular that everyone jumped on the bandwagon!

Our friends at Troma got into the action by releasing this classic exploitation film from Hungary!

“Maniac Nurses Find Ecstasy”!

Troma is America’s longest lasting independent film studio – in large part because they have a great sense of humor when it comes to film.

Here is Troma’s hilariously profane trailer!

I give Troma credit for finding a wildly entertaining way to jump on the nurse bandwagon! And if you need even more of a Tromatic fix, check out the best of Troma here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/12/03/exploitation-nazis-shakespeare-tromas-tromatic-holiday-gift-guide/

Along with grind house theaters, the “sexy nurse” phenomenon faded away, but for more than a decade, they were some of the most successful low-budget movies released…

And just this year, a new nurse horror film was released – in 3D!

You can find this on demand and on home video – check out “Nurse 3D!”

Cheerleaders and nurses weren’t the only ones exploited…during the height of the “grind house” cinema phases, even hillbillies got a chance to shine as well!

“Flaming Hillbilly Color!”

As you can see, smart movie producers pandered to everyone! Read all about love in “flaming hillbilly color” by clicking here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/08/29/forbidden-flesh-child-brides-see-how-they-love-in-flaming-hillbilly-color-early-sexploitation-madness/

While it faded in America, the cult movie “grind house” phenomenon made its way to Asia, and in Japan, some of the wildest action movies of all time were made!

That’s right, this woman is fighting off a gang of men wearing nothing but a very sharp sword! Read all about “Sex & Fury”, and this classic J-sploitaiton genre by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/02/19/killer-dwarves-blind-beasts-naked-female-yakuzas-japanese-sexploitation-lives/

And finally, here is a story about some of the funniest, most obvious movie posters ever:

“Love-Starved And Eager To Learn!”

See some of the most obvious, and misleading movie posters of all time by clicking here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/05/31/forbidden-flesh-dirty-girls-the-unsatisfied-classic-sexploitation-cinema/

Let me know what you think of this nurse phenomenon!

One of the most difficult aspects of making a film is deciding what to call it – after all, lots of us go see a film based on the title!

Sure, “Jaws” pretty much nailed it…big shark, “JAWS”…I’m in…and when a movie has a distinctive, iconic title, there’s not much more you need to worry about…here are more examples of films where the titles pretty much told you all you need to know…

Yes, THAT film title explains exactly what you are about to see as well! And in that vein of “this film MUST be as bad as it sounds”, I offer you this movie title:

“I Could Never Have Sex With Any Man Who Has Such Little Respect For My Husband!”

First of all, what was the year 1973 thinking when it released this movie to the world?

That said, it’s not only a very accurate description of the film, but one of the strangest movie titles of all time!

In this sex farce, a couple of aspiring swingers rent a summer cottage in Martha’s Vineyard. There they sit around discussing the pros and cons of having affairs!

Of course they do!

This was an actual movie that was released in theaters…and here’s another wacky movie title that shares the same distinction!

“Psyched By The 4D Witch”!

Yes, it’s not only one of the strangest movie titles ever, but it was theatrically released as well! The early 70’s were obviously a gold mine for wacky!

I probably don’t have to tell you this, but “Psyched By The 4D Witch” is one of the worst films of all time…read all about it here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/10/06/manos-hands-of-fate-is-here-halloween-2015-celebrates-horrors-worst-directors-sex-fleshpots-4d-witches/

Oh, Dustin Hoffman, REALLY?

While “4D Witch” will only be remembered by the people who made it, some of these strange movie titles had really big stars in the films – here is a great example – take a deep breath and try to get this movie title out in one sitting:

“Who Is Harry Kellerman And Why Is He Saying Those Terrible Things About Me?”

What the? Well, this obscure 1971 film starred Dustin Hoffman as a song writer who cannot love himself, or others. So he spends his days with various women flying his plane, and dropping in to the world around him. Um, OK….

Dustin went on to star in some more mainstream movies with more straightforward titles of course:

Well, maybe not…you see, I wanted to share some of the funniest and most unique movie titles of all time – the films themselves may be good, bad or ugly, or in some cases, cult classics like this one!

“Sorority Babes In The Slimeball Bowl-A-Rama!”

This 80’s cult horror film starred Scream Queen Linnea Quigley, and was originally called “The Imp!”

You see, a bunch of sorority sisters are trapped in a bowling alley, and are terrorized by the afore-mentioned “Imp!”

To see more of this wackiness, and to celebrate Linnea Quigley in all of her greatness, click on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/10/28/scream-queen-linnea-quigley-naked-graveyard-dancing-horror-demons-too/

Finally, there is this gem…if you think I am joking about this movie title, YOU ARE WRONG:

“The World’s First Monster Musical!”

Yes, this is real movie! Time to embrace:

“The Incredibly Strange Creatures Who Stopped Living and Became Mixed-Up Zombies!”

Watch this classic trailer for “the world’s first monster musical!”

That is, without a doubt, the most unique movie title I’ve ver heard…well, except for the others! So there you have it, five very strange movie titles…let me know which is your favorite!

Talk About A Wrong Turn!

It was Steve McQueen’s last film, and it included the most incredible car stunt Chicago has ever seen!

Time to celebrate “The Hunter!”

Steve McQueen was one of the biggest stars of the 60’s and 70’s, with films such as “The Great Escape”, “Papillon” and the iconic action movie “Bullitt.”

He was also one of Hollywood’s coolest stars…McQueen was a huge car buff and race car driver as well, and his last film included Chicago’s most amazing car stunt ever!

“The Hunter” was the true story of professional bounty hunter Ralph “Papa” Thorson.

Check out the trailer:

“The Hunter” was McQueen’s last film, and sadly, it was during filming that co-workers realized something was wrong with the Actor.

1980 — American actor Steve McQueen on the set of The Hunter, directed by Buzz Kulik. — Image by © Paramount Pictures/Sunset Boulevard/Corbis

According to numerous biographies and documentaries on Steve McQueen’s life, one of the first signs of problems relating to the cancer in his lungs occurred when shooting a scene in which McQueen is running down the street and turns a corner. When the director yelled, “Cut!”, McQueen didn’t come back around the corner. McQueen was found leaning against a wall trying desperately to catch his breath.

Steve McQueen was diagnosed with cancer the month after filming had ended.

Also tragic was the fact that the real Ralph Thorson, portrayed by Steve McQueen in the movie, was killed by a car bomb in 1994.

“The Hunter” is best known as the film that showed off Chicago’s iconic Marina Towers in a very special way!

Chicago’s Dual Corn Cobs!

Marina City includes a unique pair of apartment buildings on the Chicago River, and tenants have their cars valet parked on the lower floors of the building.

As the Chicago Tribune noted: “a car chase up Marina City towers’ parking ramp ends with a vehicle losing control on the 15th floor of the corncob-looking building and plunging into the Chicago River.

That’s right, the chase ends when the car shoots off of the 19th floor and into the Chicago river!

“It’s certainly a spectacular image people frequently associate with Chicago, it’s perhaps one of the more memorable stunts the city has done overall. Up until that point, so few big movies were made in Chicago. It helped put Chicago on the map when it comes to filmmaking.”

McQueen’s last movie isn’t one of his best, even with the amazing stunt – which has NEVER been allowed since!

If you want to see more classic Steve McQueen, you can begin here:

The Getaway!

Take notorious Director Sam Peckinpah, add the toughest – and coolest – action star of the time in Steve McQueen, and add new star Ali McGraw, and you have a dynamite action film from 1972 that is as entertaining today as the day it was released!

This is the film that led to McQueen and Macgraw leaving their spouses and running off together. Here is a surprisingly long trailer!

Here’s the plot: Master thief Doc McCoy knows his wife has been in bed with the local political boss in order to spring him from jail.

What he doesn’t know are all of the double-crosses that will sour the deal once he’s on the outside – and pulling off the ultimate robbery.

This is filled with iconic scenes, and so much cool it will put a chill on your living room! Just look at McQueen and MacGraw blasting their way out of trouble…

Ali McGraw’s Husband!

Ali MacGraw was one of Hollywood’s biggest female star when she made “The Getaway”, thanks to the mega-hit “Love Story.” She was also married to movie Executive Robert “The Kid Stays In The Picture” Evans!

MacGraw and McQueen began an affair during the filming of the movie, and ended up getting married…Evans discusses this part of his life in his terrific memoir, “The Kid Stays In The Picture.”

Oh Sally!

Sally Struthers has a deliciously wacky small role in the film, as the wife of a mild-mannered Dentist! They are both kidnapped by a ruthless thug out to find McQueen…

Struthers was a big star at the time on TV’s “All In The Family”…”The Getaway” is a great action movie, beautifully directed, and worth finding on dvd…

If this has whetted your appetite for classic 70’s action films, there I have a story for you!

Here is a story of some of the best 70’s action movies, with some of the biggest guns! Click on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/01/24/the-greatest-70s-action-films-ever-biggest-stars-with-the-biggest-guns/

“Thunderbolt And Lightfoot” is a classic 70’s movie…but somewhat neglected as well….here is another classic 70’s movie that is little known…

If you want to discover more classic 70’s films, click on my story here for ten neglected gems:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/01/29/ten-great-undiscovered-70s-movies/

And leave me a message to let me know if you’ve seen Chicago’s greatest car stunt of all time!

Meet “The Sultan of Sexploitation”!

How is that for a job title! In an era when movies like “The Pigkeeper’s Daughter” played in grind houses across the country, there was one man who made a fortune by delivering a series of software sex comedies!

Harry Novak started Boxoffice International Pictures in 1964, and hit the grind house circuit soon after with the sex romp “Kiss Me Quick” – check out this poster!

These movies were designed to titillate male audiences who were eager to see a new permissiveness on screen…

As a Producer, Novak filled America’s grind houses with a non-stop series of trashy sexploitation movies like these:

Novak’s genius was to capitalize on the explosion of sex and violence in films int he 60’s, and maximize both for profit!

The Secret Sex Lives Of Romeo & Juliet!

One notorious sexploitation stunt was to take a classic story and “perv it up!” So Novak told the story of the “secret sex lives” of history’s most enduring love story, and he knocked off other hit films as well!

I Am Curious Tahiti!

In the late 60’s, “I Am Curious (Yellow)” shocked America with its candid and frank look at sex in Denmark. Novak saw a good thing and did a version from Tahiti!

Remember when Marlon Brando shocked the world with his demand for butter?

Well, Novak knew that moviegoers wanted more of a good thing, so he rushed out this knock off:

Novak also knew how to titillate audiences with his look into the dark corners of the US, like these classic comedies about country girls:

Sassy Sue!

“Sassy Sue” and “The Pigkeeper’s Daughter” were classic software sex romps, full of tons of nudity and action…and speaking of action, Novak also loved to document the country’s road to ruin…

A Scream In The Streets!

These films were made quickly and cheap, and they jumped on whatever was happening in the real world – so “a city ripped apart by sin and lust!” was his way to look at the criminal underworld in America’s cities…

But perhaps Novak’s greatest claim to fame has one of the greatest movie titles of all time:

“Wham! Bam! Thank You Spaceman!”

What else needs to be said: Check out this wacky trailer!

Now THAT’S entertainment! Movies don’t get this wacky anymore! The plot is simple: Two aliens from a dying planet are on a mission to impregnate Earth women – of course they are!

Here’s a funny fact about the quality of this film:

When the spacemen are ready to land, the globe stops and zooms into the center of South America – the interior of Brazil. When they get out of their spaceship, they are in Hollywood!

“Wham Bam” is another example of the raucous era of filmmaking in the 70’s…and we are all better off for it!

Bravo Harry Novak, while you passed away last year your movies will live forever!

And if you love what Harry Novak achieved, then you will absolutely love the greatest softcore filmmaker of all time – Russ Meyer!

Russ Meyer was the genius behind “Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” and “Vixen”, among many others…read all about them here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/03/16/sexploitation-classics-the-russ-meyer-edition/

These are classic grind house films…if you don’t know what grind houses are, here is a look at New York’s Times Square in the 70’s…

These movie theaters showed movies full of sex and violence, and they played 24 hours a day…”grinding them out” for single guys…read about this crazy era in movies here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/11/23/sex-violence-grindhouse-have-a-purient-holiday-an-exploitation-gift-guide/

Let me know what you think!

Talk about a fun locker room! One of the NFL’s most legendary stars not only hung out with Farrah Fawcett, he made football history when he said:

“We’re going to win Sunday. I guarantee it.”

It is the boldest prediction in Super Bowl history! And it was true…launching the legend of “Broadway Joe” Namath, one of the NFL’s most colorful stars…need proof? How about his choice of wardrobe when on the sideline?

Football And Fur Coats!

Yes, he wore a fur coat on the sideline! That, my friends, is how legends are born!

It’s time to look at the legend of “Broadway Joe” Namath, one of football’s wildest stars!

These pics say it all: he was a legendary ladies’ man who enjoyed all of the perks of a successful football career!

It’s a legend that re-emerged in a recent N.Y. Times article, “Does Celibacy Help Your Game?”, discussing how Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson has taken a public vow of celibacy [for Biblical reasons]. The article asks one person if that will help his game…and they asked, of course, Broadway Joe Namath, who replied:

“If some players don’t keep themselves from having sex before big games, it remains a favorite tactic of coaches!”

Time To Celebrate The Sexy Legend Of Broadway Joe Namath!

He will always be one of football’s most colorful players, a Super Bowl-winning Quarterback who played and partied in America’s biggest city – and he lived up to every one of his legends! Who else would get ALL three of these Sports Illustrated covers!

From Superstar on the rise to NY party boy – and Super Bowl legend, the story of Joe Namath was, at the beginning, a traditional one…

Namath played college football for the legendary Paul “Bear” Bryant at the University of Alabama from 1962 to 1964, before becoming a superstar NFL Quarterback for the New York Jets, becoming the legendary “Broadway Joe” Namath.

He wore white fur coats on the sidelines when not suited up to play, and he lived “larger-than-life” in a city that not only embraced him, they made him the toast of the town!

“Broadway Joe’s” Super Bowl Guarantee!

Namath’s legendary status was sealed when he boldly predicted that his New York Jets, from the upstart American Football League, would beat the legendary Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl 3.

“We’re going to win Sunday. I guarantee it.”

The conservative minds at the NFL were shocked by such a bold proclamation!

The Biggest Upset In NFL History!

Namath backed up his bold guarantee by leading a shocking Jets victory over Don Shula’s NFL Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III, 16-7. Many feel it led the NFL to move faster to merge with the AFL…it was one of the NFL’s most shocking upsets of all time.

After conquering the world of sports, where else was there for “Broadway Joe” to go than, of course, Hollywood!

“Broadway Joe Meets Sex Symbol Ann-Margret!

Namath went to Hollywood and starred in the cult classic action film “C.C. and Company”, with sex symbol Ann-Margret…check out the trailer!

Namath ended up on some of the 70’s and 80’s biggest TV shows such as “The Love Boat” , “Married… with Children”, “The Brady Bunch”, and “The A-Team!”

He’s one of sport’s most entertaining stars…and The NFL Network captured it all with a terrific show about his career:

Here is a link to that great episode:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/a-football-life/0ap3000000466179/A-Football-Life-Broadway-Joe-electrifies-New-York

And Joe Namath has his own website with great content as well…check it out here:

http://broadwayjoe.tv

How can you note become a legend when you co-star alongside Hollywood’s sexiest bombshell?

Ann-Margret has had an amazing career, from co-starring with Joe Namath and Elvis, to starring in the cult classic “Tommy” – with an outrageous baked bean scene!

Read all about this iconic Actress by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/11/23/hollywoods-legendary-sex-kitten-ann-margret-rock-operas-baked-beans-elvis/

And Joe Namath wasn’t the only sports star of the 70’s to end up in the movies: don’t forget this appearance by Joe Bouton in “The Long Goodbye”:

Jim Bouton was a pitcher for the New York Yankees who wrote the greatest book about baseball ever written:

Read all about this classic book by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/09/17/ball-four-baseballs-most-controversial-and-best-book/

And of course, if you want to enjoy some of the greatest movies ABOUT the NFL, well, time to suit up!

From Al Pacino to Tom Cruise, here are the best movies about the NFL!

http://johnrieber.com/2012/08/09/nfl-nfl-pacino-yells-walhberg-runs-cruise-shows-me-the-money-hike-hike-hike-the-nfls-best-movies/

And let me know your favorite Broadway Joe story!

Are You Missing Some Good Old Fashioned “Hillbilly” Cinema?

I know what you are thinking: with award season upon us, this is certainly an Oscar contender! And it has a rich past – with other classic “hillbilly” movies like this!

Child Brides In The Ozarks!

OK then, this is one crazy genre of film! Don’t worry, the “child brides” are clearly of legal age – but in the early days of exploitation, this was racy stuff! Here are some classic examples of “hicksploitation!”

Welcome To Hicksploitation!

I love this definition! Hicksploitation is “a genre of exploitation film relying on stereotypical depictions of rural whites of the American South and Appalachia”!

In an era when “Deliverance” made everyone afraid to go in the woods, these movies exploited a sub-culture full of “gorgeous girls that set the Ozarks on fire!”

Let’s look at this classic poster again:

“See How They Live! See How They Love!”

Well, I just might take you up on that! How can you misunderstand the intent of this movie? Take a look at the trailer:

And it’s in “Flaming Hillbilly Color!”

“Flaming Hillbilly Color!” What’s NOT to love? In an era of “Hillbilly Handfishing” and “Honey Boo Boo’s family situation, there seems to be a Hillbilly revival!

Here are some more classics from that era:

“Country Cuzzins!” A VERY Close Family!

No way to misunderstand what they are saying here – just look at the poster!

Here is the trailer for this campy cult film:

There’s a strong “Farmer’s Daughter” vibe going through all of these films: the innocent farm girl who is ready to be “tainted” by a big city feller!

Sassy Sue!

See what I mean? Come on down to the farm for some fun! Producer Harry Novak was a legend for his lowest-common denominator approach to film making, which resulted in movies like these playing in drive-in theaters all over the country to an audience of very “excitable” teen boys!

And if Sue wasn’t “Sassy” enough, then it’s time to meet “The Pigkeepers Daughter!”

She Brought A New Meaning To The Phrase “Driving A Hard Bargain!”

I find these movie posters fascinating – see how lewd they are, with obvious come ons and double entendres – literally anything they could think of is included – these films played drive-ins all across the country – again, for teenage boys willing to part with their allowance for a chance to glimpse a naked girl!

Here is the VERY “NSFW” trailer for “The Pigkeepers Daughter!”

This genre of “sexploitation” has been captured for us to enjoy forever thanks to the great work by SomethingWeird Video, which lovingly restores and releases these movies to a nation eager to “head down south!”

Here are some other funny looking titles that jumped on the “hicksploitation” bandwagon:

“Gator Bait” Indeed!

One of the genre’s most popular entries was “Gator Bait!” Claudia Jennings starred in this classic hicksploitaiton film – Jennings was Playboy Magazine’s Playmate Of The Year in 1970, and she parlayed that into an acting career, including “Gator Bait” – shot in ten days!

Check out the trailer!

In general, you needed scantily-clad women who could kick ass! And there were plenty of films that could offer that up, like this one, also starring Jennings!

Eager movie Producers took advantage of whatever genre of film was popular at the time, which is how you got movies like this!

Yes, when haunted houses were the rage, why not throw in a few hillbillies? Hilarious, and hilariously BAD!

If you want to see more classic exploitation films from the seventies, check out my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/08/29/forbidden-flesh-child-brides-see-how-they-love-in-flaming-hillbilly-color-early-sexploitation-madness/

And it wasn’t all naked women: there was a decade full of “good ‘ol boy” action films as well, with many starring Burt Reynolds!

Check out some of his classics of the genre by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/02/22/suck-down-some-white-lightning-hicksploitation-burt-reynolds-gator-good-ol-boy-action-classics/

Let me know what you think of “hicksploitation!”

Is This 007’s Sexist Bond Girl EVER?

007 has had some of the most beautiful Actresses in movie history featured as a “Bond girl”…including such modern-day Actresses as Halle Berry and Rosamund Pike -but in the beginning, it’s wasn’t that type of stunt casting. Here’s a look at one of the earliest Bond girls who moved from 007 to Giallo!

Meet Claudine Auger – born is France, she earned the title of “Miss France Monde” and was the first runner-up in the 1958 “Miss World” contest.

Claudine’s big break came in 1965 when she was cast in the fourth James Bond film. Auger is, to me, the most beautiful Bond girl of all – and she shares the poster with Sean Connery as Bond girl “Domino” in “Thunderball”:

Here is the classic trailer for one of the best Bond films ever:

Auger holds her against up against 007, and the film’s huge success made her a star – which she used to star in some of the best 1970’s sex shockers of all time!

A “Bond Girl” Triple Bill!

In 1971, she starred with two other Bond girls, Barbara Bach and Barbara Bouchet, in the classic Italian Giallo “Black Belly Of The Tarantula”!

Check out the intense trailer!

Here is the plot for this classic Italian thriller:

Inspector Tellini investigates serial crimes where victims are paralyzed while having their bellies ripped open with a sharp knife, much in the same way tarantulas are killed by the black wasp!

Claudine is terrific in the film, which is one of the best Italian “giallo” thrillers – more on this genre in a second, but first, time for some choice dialogue!

Paolo: “But, man isn’t an insect, my dear Simon. We have centuries of civilization behind us, you know.”
Simon: “No, I don’t know. I wasn’t there.”

Time For More Claudine!

Auger also starred in another great Italian “giallo” thriller, known as:

“Twitch Of The Death Nerve”!

First, check out this groovy, psychedelic trailer!

Or you can call it “Bay Of Blood” – it was known by both titles – and many others as well!

Here is the plot: Countess Federica, the elderly owner of a coveted piece of bayside property, is brutally slain by her husband–who is himself killed by a mysterious third person at the murder scene! Who is the killer? Director Mario Bava’s black comedy of human greed boasts 13 characters and 13 of the most shocking murders ever filmed!

This is considered by many cult film fans as Director Mario Bava’s most influential film and the Godfather of the “slasher” genre!

As I mentioned, this film was released in the US with a multitude of titles, including “The Last House on the Left Part II”, even though this film had nothing to do with Wes Craven’s cult shocker “The Last House on the Left”!

Here is more great trivia, thanks to IMDB: “Friday the 13th Part 2” takes two murders from this film, almost shot for shot!

Auger has had a long and successful career, but these movies are, without a doubt, some of her greatest work!

As I mentioned before, Auger co-starred with Barbara Bouchet, who was also a Bond girl!

Bouchet was in the spoof “Casino Royale”, along with a number of other great films – you can read all about her here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/04/29/classic-sex-kitten-james-bonds-sexy-co-star-barbara-bouchet/

And I mentioned Italian “giallo” films, which were sex shockers from the 70’s – great cult classics like this:

Read about the classic “Lizard In A Woman’s Skin” and more italian sex shockers by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/10/15/a-lizard-in-a-womans-skin-halloweens-controversial-giallo-on-trial-slithering-italian-sex-shockers/

And if you want to see one of the greatest titles in the italian “giallo” genre, what about this?

This is a perfect example of the genre, a great 70’s thriller from Italy – read all about it by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/07/09/time-to-strip-nude-four-flies-and-baba-yaga-to-you-yes-its-classic-italian-giallo/

Let me know what you think of the great Actress Claudine Auger!

Elevator Sex!

It is one of cinema’s most iconic erotic scenes – with Oscar winners!

Revenge!

And it is one of movie’s most shocking endings – a tale of revenge with one added bonus!

Boiling Bunnies!

Yes, it is true: that WAS a real bunny! Time to celebrate all that is the majesty of:

The “Oral” History Of “Fatal Attraction”!

First and foremost, remember this: “Fatal Attraction” was nominated for best picture of the year in 1987 – it was a pop culture phenomenon – that nobody wanted to make!

Empire magazine Writer Mark Salisbury did a great oral history of the film in the October issue of the magazine.

It’s a great story about a great movie that lives on decades later as one of Hollywood’s most explicit shockers!

Here are some of the highlights from the magazine article!

What A Credit!

The opening credits include this:

“Written by James Dearden based on his original screenplay”

That’s because Dearden’s short film “Diverson” told the story that became the first third of the film – his tale of a girlfriend who slits her wrists when her boyfriend tries to break up with her. That was the end of “Diverson”, but the inspiration for the rest of “Fatal Attraction.”

Producers saw the short film and asked Dearden to expand it into a feature length film…but as Producer Sherry Lansing said:

“Every studio passed on it at least twice. People would throw the script in my face and say, ‘i’m a happily married man, i would never cheat on my wife for absolutely no reason.’ They were really offended by it.”

For good reason! Some of the Oscar-nominated script included conversations like this, which began after Douglas has an affair with Close while his wife and daughter are out of town:

Dan Gallagher: You’re so sad. You know that, Alex? Lonely and very sad.
Alex Forrest: Don’t you ever pity me, you smug bastard.
Dan Gallagher: I’ll pity you… I’ll pity you. I’ll pity you because you’re sick.
Alex Forrest: Why? Because I won’t allow you treat me like some slut you can just bang a couple of times and throw in the garbage?

And that’s what was so controversial about the film – Douglas has almost NO regret for cheating on his wife, only for being caught up in a revenge tale from a woman spurned!

Brian DePalma Vs. Michael Douglas!

And then came the disasterous directorial dance with Brian DePalma, who had just made “The Untoucables” and wanted to take “Fatal Attraction” in a different direction – without Michael Douglas!

Luckily, The Producers said “no”, and DePalma left the project. Says Lansing:

“We never told Michael. He only found out many years later, after he was so hugely successful. He thought it was funny. At the time it would have really hurt him.”

And Douglass adds pointedly about Brian DePalma’s effort to replace him:

“I’ve always carried a grude with Bri. We didn’t get it resolved for like 20 years, when he came up to maat some party to try and explain. I just said, ‘Brian, it’s too late. Twenty years is too late.”

As for Glenn Close, she was told that she was too nice and earthy to be the vixen in the movie, so she showed up with her hair uncombed, frizzly and unmanageable…just like the character – and won them over immediately!

Director Adrien Lyne said after her audition: “I remember thinking her hair was a disaster, but that’s what people remember, that kind of medusa hair.”

As Michael Douglas admitted:

“I thought she was wrong before she came and in and absolutely right after she came in. She had that sexy, erotic, dangerous quality.”

And as for the sex scenes, Michael Douglas tells some funny stories about being goofy on set to take the tension out of the moment and Glenn Close was up for anything – IF she was kept awash in alcohol.

“I said, OK Tommy (the prop guy) you have to give me a pitcher of margaritas.”

Oh, and then there is this:

“The stench was unbearable!”

Yes, it was a REAL Rabbit used in that infamous scene…a dead one with the innards taken out but the fur left on, and it smelled horrible…because they really did boil it in a pot of hot water for the scene!

As For The Controversial Ending…

The film’s DVD and blu-ray releases have a lot of great stories about how the audience reacted to test screenings, including the original ending – and the magazine article goes into the controversy about that as well…

The film’s original ending was bleak, with Close committing suicide…but audiences wanted more, and so reluctantly, Glenn Close agreed to let her character show a more evil side at the end…

As she says now:

“The changes that were made with the ending, for better or fore worse for Alex, made it into the sensation that it became…I’m proud to be part of that movie. its part of our collective consciousness.”

If you want to see more, go to the Empire website – the magazine has a ton of great content every month:

And don’t forget that “Fatal Attraction” was part of the Michael Douglas “penis” trilogy…read the rest here!

http://johnrieber.com/2014/01/13/fatal-attractions-basic-instincts-full-disclosure-the-infamous-michael-douglas-penis-trilogy/

And if you are surprised that the film was Oscar-nominated, don’t be: Oscar has said “bravo” to X-rated films 13 times! Read about Oscar’s adult fixation by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/05/07/x-rated-butter-cowboys-droogs-oscars-x-flirtation/

And let me know what you think of “Fatal Attraction!”

Radiohead Does 007! And Gets Whacked!

As always, it began on social media – this announcement from Radiohead’s lead singer:

Thom Yorke ✔@thomyorke
“Last year we were asked to write a tune for Bond movie Spectre. Yes we were”

And with that tweet, another chapter in the “censored” James Bond theme songs is written!

Radiohead fans got the greatest Christmas present ever – the band released their “Spectre” theme song on SoundCloud – yes, Radiohead recorded a James Bond theme!

Lead singer Thom Yorke announced on Twitter that Radiohead did “write a tune” for the latest film in the James Bond series, but it didn’t end up “working out”, according to him.

Fans flooded the internet with their versions of the film’s opening titles – with the Radiohead song – take a look!

Sam Smith was ultimately chosen to record the movie’s theme song, “Writing on the Wall,” which in my opinion is an AWFUL Bond song – no sense of the history of the series at all – just a drab ballad that didn’t make a dent in the charts…

Radiohead, Meet Alice Cooper!

This isn’t he first time a James Bond theme song was censored…yes, the series has a history of rejecting theme songs…

Alice Cooper was one of the biggest bands of the mid-70’s, and the group also wrote a Bond theme, and it was rejected as well! Read all about Alice Cooper’s “Man With The Golden Gun” debacle by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/10/05/adele-skyfall-new-james-bond-theme-best-bond-themes-censored-bond-music/

It’s an honor to record a Bond theme song, but that doesn’t mean it gets used!

Leave a comment to let me know what you think of Radiohead’s effort!

“Hello, Honey!”

One picture. One iconic name: Honey Ryder. The FIRST Bond Girl! As she said at the time:

“This bikini made me into a success. As a result of starring in Dr. No as the first Bond girl, I was given the freedom to take my pick of future roles and to become financially independent.”

Time To Celebrate Ursula Andress – Nicknamed Ursula “Undress”!

Ursula Andress is a Swiss film Actress who has appeared with some of Hollywood’s all-time biggest stars, including Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley!

But she will also forever be known for this:

007’s First Bond Girl!

Andress achieved instant stardom in 1962 when she emerged from the water as Bond girl Honey Ryder in the first James Bond film, “Dr. No!”

Here is the scene from “Dr. No” when Sean Connery sees his first “Bond Girl”:

A Dubbed “Andress!”

Here is some great trivia: Ursula’s Swiss accent was so strong that her dialogue was dubbed – that’s not even her voice in the film! Still, it didn’t keep her from stardom. As Andress said:

“This bikini made me into a success. As a result of starring in Dr. No as the first Bond girl, I was given the freedom to take my pick of future roles and to become financially independent.”

And so she did, moving on to a series of big hit films with Hollywood’s biggest stars!

Andress co-starred with Elvis Presley in the 1963 musical “Fun in Acapulco”, and then moved on to another of America’s most popular singers!

Address also starred with Frank Sinatra, Anita Ekberg and Dean Martin in “4 for Texas” – and she also dated James Dean shortly before his death…

Ursula “Undress!”

Now, let’s discuss her nickname: how she earned it, and what she thought of it!

In 1965, Ursula Andress posed nude for Playboy – in what would be the first of eight times she posed for the magazine!

So THIS Is How She Earned Her Nickname!

Address appeared nude in a number of her movie roles, and posed for many pictorials, including one where she re-enacted her “Dr. No” pose – minus some wardrobe…

She was asked once why she had agreed to do the Playboy shoot – here is her succinct reply:

“Because I’m beautiful.”

OK then, within a few years she had earned her the nickname “Ursula Undress!”

Her film and TV work slowed down as she got older, but in 2006, on the occasion of the inauguration of the Swiss Consulate General in Scotland, Andress celebrated her 70th birthday on board the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh in the company of an international crowd of celebrities.

Here is an article looking at her life now, still turning heads at 79!

http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/625780/Ursula-Andress-ultimate-original-bond-girl-where-is-she-now

Of course, Andress was just the first of many Bond girls – some who actually helped the movie plots, many of whom were wasted window dressing…some feel that this was the most beautiful Bond girl of all time!

Claudine Auger starred with Sean Connery in the fourth Bond film, “Thunderball” – also using the film’s beach locations to her benefit.

You can read more about Auger’s filmography, including one of Italy’s best giallo thrillers!

https://johnrieber.com/2015/12/18/sexiest-bond-girl-ever-sex-kitten-claudine-auger-james-bond-and-giallo-horror/

Another “Bond Girl” wasn’t in any of the official 007 movies, but in a spoof of Bond that was a smash hit in the late 60’s!

Barbara Bouchet was a “Bond girl” in the camp film “Casino Royale” – read more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/04/29/classic-sex-kitten-james-bonds-sexy-co-star-barbara-bouchet/

And since we are on all things “James Bond 007” – time for one of the biggest film debates of all time:

Who is the best 007? Who was the worst James Bond? Well, you can weigh in by clicking here!

https://johnrieber.com/2013/09/24/his-name-is-bond-james-bond-the-best-007-ever-the-worst-film-fight-club-begins-now/

For many, the best part of a Bond movie is the theme song – and we all know which one was the all-time best:

Paul McCartney and Wings rocked “Live And Let Die” to new Bond heights…but what is your favorite? Click here to vote – just don’t click “yes” for Madonna!

https://johnrieber.com/2013/11/05/rock-on-007-the-best-and-worst-james-bond-theme-songs/

And let’s take a moment to tip our hat to the first “Bond girl” ever!

Check Out These “Man Eager” Girls!

These provocative words describe the cult Clint Eastwood film “The Beguiled!” The classic trailer explains more!

A Unique Love Story Of Pain And Pleasure!

Welcome to the world of “The Beguiled!” This forgotten cult film from 1971 is unique in a number of ways, and is now getting a high profile remake!

Clint Eastwood stars as Corporal John McBurney, a wounded Civil War soldier nursed back to health by a boarding school full of women! This erotic thriller includes conversations like this:

Martha Farnsworth: If the pain gets too great, I’ll ask Hallie to bring you some (wine).
Cpl. John McBurney: Well, this does seem like a good occasion, and I would love some wine.
Martha Farnsworth: It was offered for your pain, not for your pleasure!
Cpl. John McBurney: To be sure, ma’am. It’s just that sometimes the two go together.

As you can imagine, the erotic tension builds scene after scene, as Eastwood “heals”, and begins to woo the “love-starved” and “man eager” women…

Bring On More “Beguiled!”

“The Beguiled” is a classic cult erotic thriller with a great ending, and guess what? It’s due for a big budget remake!

Sophia Coppola, who directed Bill Murray in “Lost In Translation”, has announced that she is remaking the film, and here is her cast: Nicole Kidman, Elle Fanning, and longtime collaborator Kirsten Dunst will star in her remake. Fanning will play a student, Dunst will play one of the teachers, and Kidman will play the headmistress.

No word yet on who will play Clint’s role, and no doubt that Coppola will add a unique feminine perspective to the material…whoever stars in the film will have a big pair of shoes to fill!

Of course, Coppola made one of the best films about Tokyo EVER:

I have been to Tokyo, and I love “Lost In Translation”…click here to see why:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/08/30/lost-in-translation-the-magic-of-bill-murrays-tokyo-neon-magic-shibuya-to-you-too/

Coppola will be making “The Beguiled” soon, and she can learn a lot by following what the original Director did – because he was a legend!

“The Beguiled” Director Don Siegel!

Coppola is also stepping into big shoes: “The Beguiled” was directed by legendary moviemaker Don Siegel!

Siegel made five films with Eastwood, including “Escape From Alcatraz”, and the Director also made John Wayne’s final film, “The Shootist”.

Don Siegel’s Classic “Dirty Harry!”

Siegel’s most famous film with Eastwood is no doubt “Dirty Harry”, the classic action thriller about a deadly sniper being tracked through San Francisco by “Dirty” Harry Callahan…

The film is known for so many classic moments, and iconic dialogue like “do you feel lucky punk? – and you can read all about them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/01/24/the-greatest-70s-action-films-ever-biggest-stars-with-the-biggest-guns/

Siegel’s directing career also included such classics as “Invasion Of The Body Snatchers” and a cult Walter Matthau thriller called “Charley Varrick.”

Matthaue was best known as a comic Actor, but in the 70’s he starred in a number of gritty action thrillers…see them here!

Bank Robbers And Bus Massacres! Charley Varrick! The Laughing Policeman! Walter Matthau, Action Star!

Siegel and Eastwood had a great working relationship, and when Clint made his directing debut, Siegel was right there with him…

“Play Misty For Me!”

Eastwood’s directorial debut in 1971 was the classic thriller “Play Misty For Me” – Clint plays a radio DJ who has an obsessive fan – and yes, there are plenty of similarities between it and the 1987 classic “Fatal Attraction!”

Here is a scene with Don Siegel playing a bartender, who Clint hangs out with – and that’s Jessica Harper as the fan who stalks Eastwood…it’s an interesting film, one of my favorites from the 70’s…see more here!

https://johnrieber.com/2011/12/11/classic-70s-cinema/

Leave a message to let me know what you think of Sophia Coppola’s plan to re-do “The Beguiled!”