Maison de Plaisir, or "Pleasure House," is a 1980 erotic drama directed by Gérard Kikoïne that takes us into the world of a unique brothel where the tables are turned and men are the ones providing pleasure to wealthy women. The film has a certain vintage charm and an unapologetically explicit nature that will appeal to fans of classic adult cinema.
The story centers around Eva, a sophisticated and domineering woman who runs a high-class male brothel, catering to the desires of elite female clients. One day, her world collides with that of Laure, a young runaway, when Eva's limousine accidentally hits Laure on the street. Eva takes the distraught Laure back to her mansion, where a passionate lesbian encounter ensues. It's revealed that Laure fled her home after catching her mother in bed with her boyfriend, adding a layer of intrigue to her character.
The all-female clientele of Eva's establishment ranges from a shy young woman seeking her first sexual experience to more assertive ladies who know exactly what they want. The male prostitutes are well-built and handsome, providing a diverse menu of fantasies and role-playing scenarios. The film does an effective job of portraying the power dynamics at play, with the women taking charge and the men submitting to their every whim.
While the film delivers on its promise of explicit sex scenes, including masturbation, lesbian encounters, and group sex, the acting and production values are notably dated. The dialogue is often stilted, and the story, though intriguing, fails to fully explore the potential of its premise. The male brothel concept, while novel, could have benefited from more depth and character development.
In conclusion, Maison de Plaisir is a film that will primarily appeal to fans of vintage erotica and those seeking a glimpse into the more unconventional side of the adult industry. While it has its shortcomings, it's a memorable entry in the adult film genre.