The Tale of Tiffany Lust

The world of erotic cinema is a tricky one to navigate, and "The Tale of Tiffany Lust" from 1981 is a prime example of a film that toes the line between artistic expression and sleaze. Directed by the duo of Gérard Kikoïne and Radley Metzger, this movie takes us on a journey into the life of Tiffany, a housewife living in New York.

The film's protagonist, Tiffany (played by Dominique Saint Claire), resides in a fancy apartment with her affluent husband (George Payne). However, as the story unfolds, we discover a world of adult-themed adventures and unhealthy sensations. This is a tale of lust, desire, and the seedy underbelly of New York, all captured with a surprisingly artistic eye.

The cinematography by Gérard Loubeau is impressive, to say the least. Loubeau, himself a director of underrated erotic films, brings a soft and sensual touch to the lighting and visuals. The film revels in the seedier sights of New York, with Kikoïne, a self-proclaimed grandmaster of unhealthy sensations, clearly in his element. Despite the subject matter, the film retains a sense of class and style, an adversary touch that elevates it above similar erotic ventures.

The story, though simple, is effective in portraying the life of Tiffany and her journey into the world of lust and desire. Claire portrays Tiffany with a sense of innocence despite the explicit nature of the film, and her interactions with the rest of the cast, including Veronica Hart and Desiree Costeau, are engaging. The film also benefits from a strong sense of humor, ensuring that it doesn't take itself too seriously.

"The Tale of Tiffany Lust" might not be a masterpiece, but it is an underappreciated gem within the erotic cinema genre. With a strong cast, beautiful cinematography, and a good sense of humor, it offers an entertaining and provocative experience. While it may not reach the heights of some of director Radley Metzger's earlier works, it is still worth discovering, especially for fans of classic, artistic adult cinema.