Every so often, a film is created that transcends all limitations of time and space and upholds its status as a classical masterpiece for decades to come. "The Naked Peacock", a stirring motion picture produced in 1975 that documents the unique experiences at several nudist colonies throughout California and Ontario, is one such cinematic triumph.
Director Denis Hargrave succeeds in capturing viewers' attention through an earth-shattering premise for that era and magnifies their interest with ingenious film-making and unblemished photography. Avid moviegoers will be dazzled by the stunning cinematography of Vic Sarin, lucid explanations from the nudists themselves, and above all the quintessentially optimistic theme of the picture, which will leave them enthralled by mankind and demanding even greater insight into why our oppressive civilization refuses to allow humanity to function in its most natural of states.
The clever and timely writing of Ian Seeberg serves to reinforce and illuminate these basic tenets, while providing the necessary context through his resounding voice-over work that enables the film's ageless teachings to flourish. The symbolism of the bride covered in a veil while exposing every other piece of flesh served as a poignant reminder of society's savage hypocrisy, with the brilliant original music of Doug Riley capable of bringing even the most stoic man to tears through its flawless timing and execution. After witnessing the children playing so innocently in all their unconcealed glory, one can't help but wonder when this world lost its way and glorified the horrors of warfare at the expense of life's most unadulterated pleasures. Producers Norman Levine, Benjamin Ulster, and Richard Ulster should be commending for giving "The Naked Peacock" the green light and providing the indispensable financial support that enabled this work of art to leave an everlasting impact on all those fortunate enough to experience its magnificence.
