Jesús Franco's "Shining Sex" is a daring, explicit, and sensual journey into the realm of 70s Euro-erotica. It's a film that embraces its B-movie status, delivering a strange yet compelling experience. With a prominent focus on sex and the female form, this sci-fi offering is light on plot but heavy on skin, making it an acquired taste even for fans of the genre.
The film wastes no time in setting the tone, as actress Lina Romay, a frequent collaborator of Franco's, treats viewers to a sexual striptease within the first few moments. The camera work is intimate and unflinching, leaving nothing to the imagination. This opening scene sets the precedent for the rest of the film, which continues to push the boundaries of what was acceptable on screen at the time.
While the film is marketed as a sci-fi offering, the science fiction elements are barely noticeable and often ludicrous. They serve more as a backdrop to showcase the erotic antics of the characters than as a driving force for the narrative. The plot is sparse and often takes a backseat to the explicit content, with the film feeling more like a series of sexual set pieces than a cohesive story.
That being said, there is a certain charm to the film's absurdity. It embraces its low-budget roots and leans into the bizarre, creating a unique and memorable experience. Romay's performance is confident and bold, carrying the film with her sultry screen presence.
However, the lack of a substantial narrative and the overreliance on sexual content may leave viewers feeling cheated, especially those expecting a more traditional sci-fi experience. The film's pacing is also an issue, with the plot meandering and failing to build towards a satisfying conclusion.
In conclusion, "Shining Sex" is a film that caters to a very specific taste. It's a daring, explicit, and sensual experience that pushes the boundaries of what was acceptable in cinema at the time. However, the lack of a compelling narrative and the driftless nature of the film may leave viewers feeling bored and unsatisfied.
