Framed to Perfection LI (51)

WONDER WOMEN (1973)

Director: Robert Vincent O'Neil

Cinematographer: Ricardo M David

Surely the sleazy 1970s exploitation film that inspired Quentin Tarantino’s whole career, disintegrating celluloid and all.

Who knows what it’s supposed to be about, but it will no doubt offend everyone who encounters it. Even though it predominantly objectifies women, even men should be outraged by the grotesque males that ooze throughout it. We’re not all like this, you know! Some of us are shy, awkward, lonely nerds who respect wonder women.

It stars Ross Hagen, who was to feminism what a speeding bus is to an ant crossing the road. Whether playing good guys or bad guys, he always played a dirtbag who should be killed off by the end of the movie. That he was often the producer too means he usually isn’t.

Sigh.

Filmed for cheap in the Philippines, there’s an epic chase scene that I assume wasn’t simulated. They just placed a bunch of cameras around town and did it, without stunt performers or shooting permits or any respect for the local community. I can’t prove this, of course, but that’s just what it looks and feels like.

The film is utterly disgusting, but lots of fun, with the odd piece of thoughtful filmmaking knocking about to keep cinephiles interested. The above shot, with the dimming natural light being motivated by lamps behind the camera, is a very memorable moment indeed.

Worth a watch, but be sure to keep stocked up on antibiotics so you don’t catch anything from its 70s filth.

WARNING: This film contains a very graphic and sad cock fight sequence, which is as shamefully grotesque as Ross Hagen’s hair. And face. And career.

Do stay in touch, darlings.

Toodles!