Let's Get Physical is an erotic drama directed by Bob Chinn and starring Hyapatia Lee, released in 1983. The film offers a tantalizing tale of passion, ballet, and intimate connections, but does it deliver a knockout punch, or does it stumble and fall?
The story follows Maria Schmidt (Hyapatia Lee), a former ballerina turned dance school owner, who finds herself in a crumbling marriage with her sexually crippled husband, Carl (Paul Thomas). As their relationship deteriorates, Maria seeks pleasure in the arms of her students, exploring affairs with both men and women. The film builds on the tension between Maria's personal life and her professional endeavors, creating a steamy atmosphere ripe for exploration.
Chinn's direction showcases the seedy underbelly of the ballet world, where desire and ambition intertwine. The film has a clear focus on the physical, emphasizing the eroticism of both ballet and sexual encounters. Lee's performance as Maria is bold and unapologetic, bringing a sense of vulnerability and intensity to the role. She embraces the physicality of the part, delivering a performance that is both sultry and athletic.
However, the film falls short in its pacing and plot development. The 79-minute runtime feels stretched, with certain scenes lingering longer than necessary. While the premise is intriguing, the story fails to build sufficient tension, and the characters' motivations often feel unclear. One of the standout moments in the film is the scene involving Shanna McCullough and Hyapatia Lee. It's a bold, provocative sequence that is sure to leave a lasting impression. The chemistry between the two actresses is palpable, and they both fully commit to the scene, making it one of the film's highlights.
Where Let's Get Physical truly shines is in its production design and attention to detail. The ballet school setting is effectively utilized, with dance routines seamlessly transitioning into passionate encounters. The film also boasts an impressive 35mm transfer, a testament to the restoration efforts of Vinegar Syndrome, ensuring that the visuals are crisp and the colors pop.
Overall, Let's Get Physical is a mixed bag. While it offers a compelling performance by Hyapatia Lee and features some well-crafted erotic scenes, the weak plot and uneven pacing let it down. Fans of 80s erotica and Chinn's distinctive style will find enjoyment here, but for others, it may fail to fully satisfy.
