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Mondo Homo: A Study of French Gay Porn in the '70s
Between 1975 and 1983 a new kind of film could be seen in French cinema : home-grown gay pornography. The films were shot in 16mm and most of them were passed and given certificates by the CNC (National Cinema Centre). They were screened in a small number of Parisian cinemas dedicated to gay pornographic films : Le Dragon, La Marotte and Le Hollywood Boulevard as well as several in the provinces. They were essentially the work of three production companies : Les Films de La Troïka (Norbert Terry), AMT Productions (Anne-Marie Tensi) and Les Films du Vertbois (principally Jacques Scandelari). The genre met an untimely end with the advent of video, the last being made in 1983 "Mon ami, mon amour (My friend, my lover)". Since then, gay pornography has not been screened in French cinemas. This film is the result of five years of painstaking research and investigation. It features extensive interviews with the directors and actors illustrated by numerous extracts from their films.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary delves into the vibrant and often controversial world of French gay pornographic films produced during the 1970s. It explores the cultural context, artistic expressions, and societal impact of this niche genre, examining how these films reflected and challenged the norms of their time. Through archival footage and interviews, the film provides a comprehensive look at the creators, performers, and themes that defined this unique era of cinematic history.
Critical Reception
As a niche documentary exploring a specific subgenre of film history, "Mondo Homo" has primarily received attention within academic and specialized film circles. It is recognized for its thorough research and unique subject matter, offering valuable insights into a less-documented aspect of cinema. While mainstream critical reviews are scarce, its academic value and contribution to understanding LGBTQ+ film history are generally acknowledged by those familiar with its subject.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its detailed historical analysis and exploration of a significant, often overlooked, aspect of gay cinema.
Recognized for its scholarly approach and contribution to understanding the cultural and artistic evolution of adult film.
Appreciated for its comprehensive archival research and insightful commentary on the societal context of 1970s French gay pornography.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific documentary is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The documentary's director, Toben D. L. Nielsen, is also known for his work in archival film preservation and research, which informed the extensive historical content presented in "Mondo Homo."
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