I'd suggest this is for Jess Franco completists only. Or perhaps I am simply not a fan of his 'comedy' films. This is a romp, really, a good excuse to show off Lina Romay in a state of undress with some wildly intimate, almost gynaecological shots that are in no way erotic, just invasive.
Director Jess Franco also stars in Al Pereira, a down-on-his-luck detective. He plays this rare starring role well; the character is often inebriated, and he certainly looks that way. He also indulges in some of the many sex romps that occur, often with real-life partner Romay, playing Cynthia, and also with Lola (Martine Stedil). These women are strippers and con artists, and their slender story is told us in rapid-fire fashion thanks to Christine Lembach's chatty script.
On the subject of Romay and Stedil: should I justify the fact that, despite the unflattering directorial obsessions with their genitalia, I think they look stunning throughout? This is one of the most exploitative of exploitation Franco I have seen, and as such, it is impossible not to comment on the players. Of other regulars, it is good to see Monica Swinn and Paul Muller albeit in subsidiary roles.
The relentless musical jazzy dirge accompanies most scenes. Like in most films from this director, it seems wholly inappropriate for the 'action', but unusually, Walter Baumgartner's contribution is entirely unmemorable. Sadly, this is the weakest of all Franco/Erwin C. Dietrich's collaborations. Al Pireira would return to Jess's stable at the very end of his career (and life), played by long term collaborator Antonio Mayans.
Director Jess Franco also stars in Al Pereira, a down-on-his-luck detective. He plays this rare starring role well; the character is often inebriated, and he certainly looks that way. He also indulges in some of the many sex romps that occur, often with real-life partner Romay, playing Cynthia, and also with Lola (Martine Stedil). These women are strippers and con artists, and their slender story is told us in rapid-fire fashion thanks to Christine Lembach's chatty script.
On the subject of Romay and Stedil: should I justify the fact that, despite the unflattering directorial obsessions with their genitalia, I think they look stunning throughout? This is one of the most exploitative of exploitation Franco I have seen, and as such, it is impossible not to comment on the players. Of other regulars, it is good to see Monica Swinn and Paul Muller albeit in subsidiary roles.
The relentless musical jazzy dirge accompanies most scenes. Like in most films from this director, it seems wholly inappropriate for the 'action', but unusually, Walter Baumgartner's contribution is entirely unmemorable. Sadly, this is the weakest of all Franco/Erwin C. Dietrich's collaborations. Al Pireira would return to Jess's stable at the very end of his career (and life), played by long term collaborator Antonio Mayans.