Contes immoraux / Immoral Tales (1974)

March 9, 2023, 8:03 a.m. Erotic Cinema Evelyn Lark

Contes immoraux / Immoral Tales (1974)

Contes Immoraux (Immoral Tales) is a 1973 French film directed by Walerian Borowczyk, known for his unique and controversial approach to filmmaking. The film is an anthology of four separate stories, each exploring themes of eroticism, desire, and taboo.

The first story, "La Marée," tells the story of a young man who becomes obsessed with the ebb and flow of the tides and the beautiful woman who lives by the sea. The second story, "Thérèse Philosophe," is a dark and disturbing tale of a young woman who is kept captive in a small room and forced to explore her own sexuality.

The third story, "Erzsebet Bathory," is a haunting and surreal retelling of the infamous story of the Hungarian countess who bathed in the blood of virgins in order to maintain her youth and beauty. The final story, "Lucrezia Borgia," tells the story of the infamous Italian noblewoman who was known for her ruthless political tactics and scandalous personal life.

The film's themes and tone are dark, erotic, and provocative, and Borowczyk's direction is both daring and visually stunning. The cinematography and production design are beautiful and elaborate, creating a lush and sensuous atmosphere that draws the viewer into each story.

The acting in the film is generally strong, with several standout performances. In particular, Lise Danvers delivers a powerful and deeply unsettling performance in "Thérèse Philosophe."

The score is minimal but effective, using sparse instrumentation to enhance the mood and atmosphere of each story. The special effects and editing are skillful, adding to the film's overall sense of dreamlike unreality.

Overall, Contes Immoraux is a bold and provocative film that challenges the viewer to confront their own desires and taboos. The film is not for everyone, and its explicit content may be off-putting to some. However, for those willing to engage with its themes and ideas, the film offers a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

Search Contes immoraux / Immoral Tales (1974)

Contes immoraux / Immoral Tales (1974)

Contes immoraux / Immoral Tales (1974)

Contes immoraux / Immoral Tales (1974)

Related articles