La Bete (1975)

An upper class American woman is set to marry the son of French aristocracy, but there seems to be some secrets being kept back by the family. Secrets that might go way back.

Borowczyk has got to be one of the most underrated directors of the 70's. One would never know that this French sexplotation is a satire on aristocratic behavior tied into ancient sexual imagery. The movie, thought to be of the horror genre is actually a comedy. The character so satrirical cutting, it was banned for 25 years by the British.

The movie starts and ends with vivid, startling imagery. The camerawork is not only important but shines. They help get the movie's points across very well. The pacing can be long in some areas, but they're long for a reason. They tell the story. The level of suspense is at a modocrum, but it's still there. It's like being at a big birthday bash...and you're about to surprise the guest of honor but he shows up an hour late. Now, your wonder "Where has he gone for that hour.", but you don't worry about it that much because hey! You're partying hearty!! That's what the suspense feels like.

Now, I'm not going to lie to you. Not everyone is a fan. If I were to pop this in to people who don't know what they were in for, they would strangle you afterwards. Plain and simple. If their not looking, their being creeped out by it. Do I blame them? Nah. Not really. Too much powerful images can do that.

My verdict? I'd say this would be a great Midnight Madness type movie you can offer your friends. It also be good for late night viewings.

Four Stars.