DVD Review: The Frightened Woman (1969)
Visually stunning, achingly stylish, slightly disturbing and at times even confusing. One thing is for sure though - you'll not forget The Frightened Woman (aka Femina Ridens) in a hurry.
Classed unfairly as sexploitation upon its release, this pop art gem got a rough ride from the censors - and hasn't been seen in its entirety since its 1969 release. But Shameless, working with director Pierro Zchivazappa, have managed to piece together and restore the surviving versions, producing what the director has called 'THE version of my film to watch'.
The striking Dr Sayer (Phillippe Leroy) is at the centre of the plot - a rich philanthropist living the 60s dream, but hiding a dark secret - a deep-seated fear and hatred of women. His weekends are spent dealing with those frustrations, taking women back to his ultra-hip pad to torture and kill at the point of orgasm. But all that will change when he meets stunningly attractive journalist Maria (Dagmar Lassander). Initially facing the same treatment and torment of his past sex slaves, she gradually turns the tables on Sayer - leaving the torturer as the tortured victim, desperate for her attention.
That might sound like an excuse for nudity and torture, but believe me it isn't. The Frightened Woman has a very clever plot to match the sensationalism, as well as a superb groove-laden soundtrack (recently reissued) and of course, those stylish visuals. If you are a fan of late 60s space age design, prepare to walk into a moving catalogue. And if you love bold pop art-style imagery, you'll find it here by the bucketload.
Indeed, the idea of the film is perhaps more shocking today than the film's actual content. Yes, there is some nudity. And yes, there is some (brief) torture and a few unpleasant stills - but nothing that would cause a murmur with the censors today. Which leaves us to sit down with The Frightened Woman and see it for what it really is - 1960s eye candy with a plot that's far better than you would expect. If you love the era and don't get easily upset or shocked, this is a film you really should see.
Extras on the DVD:
Theatrical trailer
Other Shameless movie trailers
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