In the domain of adult cinema, “The Devil in Miss Jones” stands as a classic from the ’70s, directed by Gerard Damiano, the maestro behind the notorious “Deep Throat” (1972). Let’s delve into this exceptional cinematic journey that held audiences spellbound and earned acclaim from the distinguished film critic The Devil in miss jones roger ebert.
Plot Unveiled: A Journey of Lust Beyond the Grave
The narrative kicks off with the protagonist, Justine Jones, portrayed by Georgina Spelvin, taking her own life. In the afterlife, she faces an unexpected twist – despite leading a morally pure existence, suicide condemns her to Hell. Yearning for the sinful pleasures she never indulged in, Justine strikes a deal with Abaca, the gatekeeper, to return to Earth temporarily and explore the carnal delights she missed.
The Cast and Crew: Behind the Scenes of Temptation
Directed and written by Gerard Damiano, with Harry Flecks handling the cinematography and Alden Shuman providing the musical backdrop, “The Devil in Miss Jones” is a production by Pierre Productions. The stellar cast includes Georgina Spelvin as Justine Jones, John Clemens as Abaca, Harry Reams as The Teacher, and Albert Gork as the Man in Cell.
Georgina Spelvin: The Heart and Soul of the Film
At the core of the film’s success is the remarkable performance of Georgina Spelvin. Born Shelley Graham, Spelvin became a household name in the adult film industry, with “The Devil in Miss Jones” catapulting her to stardom at the age of 36. It’s worth noting that Spelvin, a Broadway dancer, took on over 70 adult films in the next decade, even making appearances in mainstream movies like the Police Academy series.
A Glimpse into 70s Adult Cinema: Notable Differences
Before engaging ourselves in the film, it’s crucial to recognize that “The Devil in Miss Jones” predates the era of mass-produced, low-budget adult films for video and cable. Several notable distinctions set it apart from its modern counterparts. Georgina Spelvin appears in her natural state – a departure from the meticulously groomed actresses of today, with even her armpits untouched.
During the ’70s, the adult film industry crafted productions for theatrical audiences, investing time in proper filmmaking. Shot on 35mm film, these movies displayed a commitment to cinematography and direction, unlike the quick, weekend shoots in motel rooms that characterize many contemporary productions.
Damiano’s Direction: A Serious Approach to Adult Storytelling
Gerard Damiano approaches the narrative with a degree of seriousness seldom found in modern adult films. Scenes are directed with care, capturing incidental details and showcasing the environment. Damiano even injects moments of lyrical direction, such as the poignant use of a song during Georgina Spelvin’s bathtub suicide scene, although the film leaves the reason for her suicide unexplored.
70s Occult Influence: A Unique Spin on Afterlife Fantasies
“The Devil in Miss Jones” may have drawn inspiration from the 1970s occult trend ignited by films like “Rosemary’s Baby” (1968) and reaching its pinnacle with “The Exorcist” (1973). However, its narrative aligns more with 1940s afterlife fantasies. The film ingeniously flips the script – rather than a character striving for good deeds to enter Heaven, Justine is condemned to Hell and sent back to Earth to revel in lust.
The film concludes with an intriguing twist, condemning Justine to perpetual horniness in Hell, accompanied by an indifferent cellmate. This moralistic ending subtly disapproves of the lustful escapades showcased for the audience.
Spelvin’s Performance: Emotional Depth and Discovery
Georgina Spelvin’s portrayal of the emotionally repressed and lonely Justine resonates convincingly. As she embarks on her journey of sensual discovery, Spelvin brings a genuine sense of someone experiencing the pleasures of lust for the first time. Notably, her commentary during intimate scenes adds an unexpected layer, joyously describing each sensation in a departure from the typical scripted moans.
Exploring Taboos: Novelty in Sexual Set-Pieces
“The Devil in Miss Jones” covers the spectrum of sexual acts – from traditional to unconventional. Gerard Damiano introduces novel scenes, including Justine’s use of a water hose for self-pleasure and a bathtub enema. Some sequences touch on the erotic, such as Justine’s exploration of grapes and a banana. Notably bizarre is a scene involving Justine caressing herself with a snake, introducing a surreal element to the film.
Roger Ebert’s Perspective: A Three-Star Dirty Movie
Renowned film critic Roger Ebert, known for his discerning eye, surprisingly gave “The Devil in Miss Jones” a favourable review. In his assessment, he acknowledged the film’s standing as a three-star adult film, commending Georgina Spelvin’s exceptional performance. Ebert recognized Spelvin’s artistry and the film’s unique ambience, setting it apart from the typical adult fare.
In Ebert’s words, “The Devil in Miss Jones” is a standout in the hard-core genre, offering more than just explicit scenes. He applauded the film’s moody and poignant atmosphere, attributing its success to the filmmakers’ decision to take risks on a more ambitious project after the financial gains from “Deep Throat.”
Conclusion: “The Devil in Miss Jones” – A Cinematic Anomaly
The Devil in Miss Jones Roger Ebert persists as a cinematic anomaly, transcending the conventions of adult filmmaking. Georgina Spelvin’s compelling performance, Damiano’s serious direction, and the film’s unique narrative elevate it beyond the confines of the genre. While it may not align with modern sensibilities, this ’70s classic deserves recognition for its artistic approach and impact on the adult film landscape.
