This film is based on the writings of Marquis de Sade, a writer who would be visited several times by Jess Franco. Alice Arno plays Martine de Bressac, a countess who has spent some time in a mental institution but has now been released into the care of her opportunistic husband, Charles. Almost at once, they revert to their old ways, kidnapping and torturing a would-be model. For their next sadistic game, Charles suggests seducing Cecile, (Tania Busselier) the virginal daughter of a couple living across from their apartment. Everything goes according to plan but like any good thriller, there is a cunning twist.
Jess Franco captures perfectly the increasing sexual excitement of the two plotters as their plan comes to fruition, utilising their mute maid, Adele (Lina Romay). One scene shows Martine being fondled by Charles as they spy on Cecile writhing on her bed until Martine and Charles call upon Adele to join them in their ecstasy. There was a bit too much time showing Cecile but then this is probably what Franco does at his perverted best. Everyone seems to be in on the countess's sadistic perversions. Only the diminutive gardener, another fine casting by Franco, shows any sign of humanity, but even he has his demons. This film could have been made by Hammer, but Jess Franco takes it to a new level.
Jess Franco captures perfectly the increasing sexual excitement of the two plotters as their plan comes to fruition, utilising their mute maid, Adele (Lina Romay). One scene shows Martine being fondled by Charles as they spy on Cecile writhing on her bed until Martine and Charles call upon Adele to join them in their ecstasy. There was a bit too much time showing Cecile but then this is probably what Franco does at his perverted best. Everyone seems to be in on the countess's sadistic perversions. Only the diminutive gardener, another fine casting by Franco, shows any sign of humanity, but even he has his demons. This film could have been made by Hammer, but Jess Franco takes it to a new level.