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Reviews
The Secret Lives of Adult Stars (2004)
Not for those looking for a thrill
There is no doubt that the pornography business has changed over the past forty years. This documentary tries to capture the change, but with the exception of a few scenes with Nina Hartley (of whom I had the pleasure of), this look at the adult film industry is highly un-erotic, and very sad.
Sad, not in the sense that the participants are sad with their lot in life, but sad that anyone would find them erotic. Strangely enough, the most compelling interviews come from the male participants, I guess we re spared the sight of silicone implants from the men.
That being said, his documentary would be of good use in schools to teach youngsters to stay away from the porn industry.
Beat the Watch (1972)
For the fan of game shows
Growing up as a child in the 1970's, I was fixated by TV game shows. I was the contestant.If the contestant won big, it was like I had won big. One of the more unusual shows was Beat the Clock. In this show contestants (usually married couples) performed stunts for prizes or small cash rewards.
It was not surprising that a porno spoof was made, and this is what the producers of Beat the Watch, attempted to do, and it almost works. The problem lies in the execution. It was filmed in grainy 16mm, and the film did not beat the clock, as time has taken a big toll on the print. The film is also devoid of credits, s no doubt the makers of the film were wise to remain anonymous. At one point, the actors seem not to know were they are supposed to be doing.
The video version can be bought at Something Weird Video for ten bucks, so if you are a game show fan, you may want to risk it. It certainly won't beat the bank.
The Black Connection (1974)
Dig it Man!
Forget the story line, rent this video for the music soundtrack. Also, if you are a fan of Las Vegas history, you might have some fun playing the That Hotel was imploded game, as there are long segments showing the strip, as it appeared in 1974. This more is a forerunner of Pulp Fiction, and almost as good. It is bound to offend African Americans and Italians.