One thing that I’ve mentioned in each of these “porn as paracinema” postings is my desire for these films to be treated as, well, films. I’ll be the first to admit that many recent entries in the genre are awful and make no attempt to follow any sort of narrative. Sure, you’ll find the rare one in the bunch that does (or at least tries to). But if you’re really looking for a satisfying trek into the world of pornography, the 1970s is a great place to start.
Before I popped in The Private Afternoons of Pamela Mann, I knew I was in for a treat. The collector’s edition of the film, released by DistribPix, feels more like a Criterion disc than the usual slapping of a 70s porn flick onto DVD. Painstaking lengths have been taken to ensure the film is in the most pristine condition possible. The transfer is lovely and the extras are numerous; my favorites being the ones that center on New York. Director Radley Metzger was clearly in love with the city.
But on to the film itself. As the title suggests we spend the run time following the titular Pamela (Barbara Bourbon) throughout her day. Her husband (Alan Marlow) suspects some infidelities and hires a private investigator to tail her. Oh, and is he ever right! That little scamp sure does get into some antics. As one would expect, there is a lot of sex. But unlike many modern mainstream films, the boundaries are pushed and we are privy to everything from lesbianism to accepted rape. The film also deals with issues of morality and social consciousness. Pamela is part of the upper class and her escapades fly in the face of what her peers deem acceptable. (Although there is some obvious hypocrisy invloved.) At one point it’s even said that her exploits are those of someone belonging to a lower class. Scandalous! While not always handled in the most subtle of ways, it was still a welcome addition to the plot. And there is a plot! A plot which I feel could be spoiled. Crazy, right? So I won’t spoil it. Because the “reveal” is effective as is the film’s general themes of misdirection.
As enjoyable and interesting as the film is, the true gems can be found in the DVD extras. I really can’t stress this enough. From the commentary track and actor interviews to the glorious “Metzger’s Manhattan,” this disc puts other releases to shame. The archival footage of a fading 1970′s Manhattan is awe-inspiring. So much so, I watched it twice. Metzger was clearly enamored with the East Side and you can often see Long Island City and the Queensboro Bridge. These sights where particularly thrilling for me.
If you’re looking for porn release that goes beyond a film on a disc, this is for you. Pamela Mann is packed with invaluable footage of a bygone era. Support DistribPix and VideoXPix because we need more of these!
