Movie spotlight
Scandal In the Family
A rich older man dies during a massage (you see, uh--never mind). His young widow (Lucrezia Love) decides she needs some male help in managing her deceased husband's estate (for some reason she doesn't ask the family lawyer who she spends all her time rolling around in the hay with), so she summons her younger step-brother to come stay with her and her "little stepdaughter" (Gloria Guida). Of course, Guida's character ends up being attracted to her new "uncle" and plots to get "his bird in her bush" by, among other things, arranging for him to witness a steamy lesbian encounter between her and a friend in a, uh, steam room. To resist this temptation, the "uncle" marries Guida off to another guy while he in turn marries her friend, but they still can't resist each other.
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Plot Summary
A wealthy and powerful patriarch, Arthur, is on his deathbed, surrounded by his manipulative family. As they await his demise, hidden secrets and resentments surface, leading to a series of sordid events and power plays. The family's desperate attempts to secure their inheritance uncover a web of deceit, betrayal, and scandal.
Critical Reception
While not a critical darling, 'Scandal In the Family' was a notable exploitation film of its era, catering to a specific audience interested in its sensationalized themes of wealth, family dysfunction, and moral decay. It received a mixed to negative reception from mainstream critics but found a cult following.
What Reviewers Say
Often criticized for its sensationalist plot and melodramatic tone.
Praised by some for its unflinching portrayal of a dysfunctional wealthy family and its exploration of darker themes.
Considered a typical example of 1970s exploitation cinema, with a focus on shock value.
Google audience: Audience reception is largely unavailable due to the film's niche status and age. Those who have seen it often comment on its over-the-top nature and its reflection of the era's cinematic trends.
Fun Fact
Arthur Marks was a prolific director known for his work in the exploitation and blaxploitation genres, often pushing boundaries with his subject matter.
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