In 1936 Italy, Elio returns home from Africa with a present for his wife in the form of Zerbal, the daughter of a tribal king. Unbeknown to him, his neglected wife Alessandra has formed a relationship with Elio’s otherwise frigid secretary Velma who is less than pleased at Elio’s return.
Cinematography
Joe D'Amato's lurid lighting makes fascist villas feel fever-dream sticky.
Costume
Zerbal's 'native' outfit versus stiff 1930s tailoring tells its own power story.
Acting
Laura Gemser's silent intensity outclasses the melodramatic Italians.
Director
Joe D'Amato
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Laura Gemser was already famous for the 'Black Emanuelle' series; this was Joe D'Amato's attempt at 'respectable' erotica with the same cast.
Released during Italy's 'Years of Lead,' the film's decadent 1930s setting allowed commentary on authoritarianism while avoiding contemporary political censorship.
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