The Devil's Plaything

... than this has a lot of Horror in it! Like almost way too much of it. Full frontal and everything. There is no explicit intercourse being shown, but other than that it feels like at least 50% of the movie plays in the nude. A lot of women who may not be able to convince you of their characters motivation, but seem to be able to convince others to obey them (through singing as is suggested and their bare bodies).

I wonder if some thought: who needs Viagra, when you can chant and make people horny just like that. Of course Viagra was not a thing back then. But Horror movies were. Not that there is much evidence of that here. I mean it get eerie from time to time, but this puts the Horror mantle on to let you watch a soft-core movie and not feel bad about it. Here's the thing: you can have fun with this, because it's so bad it gets entertaining. You can't be prude (I think I thoroughly established that) and don't expect too much Horror out of it ... Fancy an ... old castle with hot women dying to get into your pants? (on a serious note: the best thing is the location itself, really puts value to the whole thing)

"Vampire Ecstasy," ( aka "Devil's Plaything") released in 1973, is a gem in the realm of cult erotic horror cinema. This film, directed by Joseph W. Sarno, stands out for its unique blend of sensuality and the supernatural, offering an unconventional take on the vampire genre.

One of the most striking aspects of "Vampire Ecstasy" is its artistry. Sarno's direction brings an almost dreamlike quality to the film, with lush visuals and a hauntingly atmospheric soundtrack that creates an entrancing and immersive experience. The cinematography is seductive, and the use of lighting and shadows adds a mysterious allure to the story.

The film also stands out for its alluring and charismatic cast. Marianne Prevost, as Countess Nadine, delivers a captivating performance with a mesmerizing blend of sensuality and a hint of menace. She's supported by a cast that's equally engaging, bringing to life a world of decadence and desire.

What truly sets "Vampire Ecstasy" apart is its approach to the vampire mythos. It's not your typical fang-and-blood horror story. Instead, it explores the erotic and psychological elements of the vampire legend, making it a distinctive and daring entry in the genre. The film delves into themes of lust, power, and seduction, making it an exploration of human desires in a way that few vampire films do.

The pacing of the film is deliberate, allowing the audience to savor the tension and build-up of desire. It's a slow burn that immerses you in its world, making each revelation and twist all the more intriguing. The film's narrative is intricate and unpredictable, keeping you engaged from start to finish.

In conclusion, "Vampire Ecstasy" is a captivating and alluring entry into the world of erotic horror cinema. It dares to explore the darker aspects of human desire and the supernatural, wrapped in a beautifully crafted package. If you're a fan of artful and unconventional horror that pushes boundaries and challenges traditional genre conventions, this film is a must-see. It's an erotic and atmospheric journey into the realm of the undead that will leave you both fascinated and bewitched.

Der Flutch der Schwarzen Schwestern (called by it's UK release title The Devil's Plaything, on my copy)is an experiment in eroto horror that never really takes off.

What plot there is to be had involves the spirit of a vampiric baroness whom has been kept alive by her cult of attendants, so as to possess the body of a young woman and be reborn. Once resurrected, she can continue her bloodlust eternally, provided she drinks the blood of the descendants of her executioners.

The stilted dialogue and even worse acting make the storyline damned hard to follow (worsened by a very poor audio mix and no subtitles).

It's pretty evident the plot is a wash about 15 minutes in, and had there been enough half clothed starlets, all would've been forgiven.

Instead there's random cut scenes of naked girls dancing to bongos(while wearing body paint reminiscent of extras from Laugh In), lots of spell induced heavy breathing in sheer nighties(resembling those shampoo as orgasm Herbal Essences commercials) and a weird incest subplot, with the girls being fairly below par overall (The castle's housekeeper/leader of the cult is probably the worst of the lot, looking like a man in drag in most camera angles) This movie is fence sitting between the two genres, and it's lack of commitment to either is what makes it a lot less interesting than it could've been. There's too little plot to be scary (having actors look about aimlessly is not an effective suspense building tool) and too little quality skin to be sexy.

3 stars. (1 for genuine castle setting, 1 for the god awful shadow puppet special effects in the bat attack scene, 1 for an interesting but wasted premise)

Well the story is a little hard to follow the first time, but that's only because of all the bare breasted '70s painted-up vampire/witches dancing to the bongo drums. This of course interrupted by a few vampiric orgies. And there are some very interesting candles and uses for them. And for girl on girl action, vampiric or not...this movie just rocks!!!

Well, the movie is wall to wall naked women from beginning to end. I'm a big fan of things like that so i enjoyed the movie. Also, these women are all easy on the eyes and various shapes and aizes. I'm telling ypu, the 70's were a magic time. No ribs, hip bones or gym rats in this one. Just naturally gorgeous women with amazing curves.

Also, don't miss the top notch sets the movie was shot in. The best part is the comically bad painting of the girls long lost ancestor. Jfc its terrible.