"Exploring Young Girls," a 1977 adult film directed by Lloyd Kaufman, delves into the lives and motivations of four women in the industry, with a style that blends documentary and dramatic reenactments. It's a sleazy, gritty, and unapologetic ride, delivering on its promise of explicit content and offering a glimpse into the adult film world of the era.
The film opens with a simple yet effective premise: four young women, including the legendary Vanessa del Rio, Sharon Mitchell, Erica Havens, and Harietta Hartley, share their stories and explain why they chose to work in adult films. Their answers are then brought to life through dramatic reenactments, adding a layer of stylistic flair to the documentary format.
One of the most memorable scenes involves Vanessa del Rio, a true icon in the industry. We see her sucking off one man while being ruthlessly double-penetrated by two others, her mouth and body working in perfect harmony to satisfy their desires. Her performance is a testament to her skill and screen presence, delivering a scene that is both intensely erotic and a showcase of her talent.
The film has a distinct aesthetic, with a dark, film noir-ish quality that adds to the overall sleaze factor. The male actors are notably de-emphasized, often not shown from the neck up, further pushing the focus onto the female stars. This creates an interesting dynamic, as the women are presented as the true power players, owning their sexuality and the screen itself.
While the documentary-style interviews provide an intriguing insight, the reenactments are a mixed bag. At times, they are well-executed and add depth to the women's stories, but they can also veer into the ludicrous or overly dramatic. The film definitely embraces its B-movie status, and while it has a certain charm, it won't be for everyone.
In terms of performance, Vanessa del Rio stands out. Her over-the-top delivery and screen presence add a layer of camp to the proceedings, showcasing her talent for this style of adult entertainment. The other women also bring their own unique energy, with Mitchell's youthful exuberance and Havens and Hartley's more subdued but no less captivating performances.
"Exploring Young Girls" is a time capsule of an era where adult films were pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. It's a gritty, unrefined, and often exploitative film that, despite its flaws, offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of adult entertainment.
