THE GOOD OLD NAUGHTY DAYS
Directed by: Michel Reilhac.
Produced by: Michel Reilhac.
Edited by: Olivier Lupczynsky.
Music by: Eric Le Guen.
Released by: Strand Releasing.
Country of Origin: France. 69 (appropriately) min. Mature Audiences.
DVD Special Features: Trailers.

Before sound, before the Brazilian bikini wax, there was pornography. Just a minute is enough to get a taste of this compilation of French 1920s porno. According to the sparse and precocious title cards, these vignettes were used in the waiting rooms of brothels. Then as now, production values are low as the "actors" mechanically get in position. (One gentleman's mustache understandably keeps falling off). There's something for everyone: lesbian nuns, a money shot and even male-on-male action. The one cartoon has a title card that reads, "Climax Fables presents 'Buried Treasure' Featuring Eveready Harton," and concerns a detachable penis. But humor, or any emotion, is a rarity in this collection. And when a tail-wagging, obedient dog becomes a participant, you'll more than likely reach for the phone to call the ASPCA than for the lube. KT
October 23, 2003