From Controversy to Classics: Meyer’s Films Shine Again

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MOVIE REVIEW
Russ Meyer Vixen Trilogy
Vixen! –
Supervixens –
Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens –

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Erotica, Action
Year Released: 1968 / 1975 / 1979
Runtime: 1h 11m / 1h 46m / 1h 33m
Director(s): Russ Meyer
Writer(s): Robert Rudelson, Russ Meyer, Anthony-James Ryan / Russ Meyer / Roger Ebert (as R. Hyde,) Russ Meyer
Cast: Erica Gavin, Garth Pillsbury, Harrison Page / Charles Pitts, Shari Eubank, Charles Napier / Kitten Natividad, Ann Marie, Ken Kerr
Where To Watch: released on DVD, Blu-ray, and UHD on January 28, 2025. The UHD and Blu-ray releases are now available for pre-order: www.severinfilms.com or Vixen! www.amazon.com, Superxiens www.amazon.com, or Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens www.amazon.com

ADULT CONTENT: As I continue to broaden the scope of my reviews, I’m thrilled to delve into the vibrant and diverse world of adult films. Featuring titles from various platforms, these reviews explore indie and mainstream adult content that challenges conventional norms and celebrates diverse depictions of desire. From softcore to hardcore, and including provocative series that bring taboo fantasies to life, these films reflect the complexities of human sexual desire in uninhibited, creative ways. Please be advised my reviews include explicit content and mature themes. If this isn’t your preference, feel free to skip these posts. No judgment here—your discretion is advised.

RAVING REVIEW: Severin Films’ UHD/Blu-ray release of Russ Meyer’s Vixen trilogy—VIXEN, SUPERVIXENS, and BENEATH THE VALLEY OF THE ULTRAVIXENS—stands as a tribute to a filmmaker who redefined independent cinema with a boldness. Each film has undergone meticulous restoration, delivering stunning 4K clarity while maintaining the raw energy that made Meyer a household name in cult cinema. Beyond the pristine restorations, Severin’s releases come packed with hours of carefully curated bonus features that provide a deep dive into Meyer's work and its cultural impact, controversies, and lasting legacy. This collection is a celebration and a reintroduction of Meyer’s artistry to modern audiences.

The restoration of these films underscores the ongoing relevance of his vision. Severin Films collaborated with The Russ Meyer Charitable Trust, The Museum of Modern Art, and The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to ensure these works were preserved and presented in their X-rated glory. VIXEN, scanned from negatives held by MoMA, looks better than ever (I had only seen a VHS rip streaming before this viewing, and it felt like the films were somehow even better than new.) Despite the challenges of weather-damaged original elements, SUPERVIXENS and BENEATH THE VALLEY OF THE ULTRAVIXENS were painstakingly restored. Each of the three films also includes hours of bonus materials, such as archival interviews, audio commentaries from Meyer himself, and new insights from cast members, making these editions the definitive must-own.

Hailed as one of the earliest examples of Meyer’s move from pure sexploitation to socially charged satire, VIXEN is a daring critique of 1960s America. With themes ranging from racism and draft-dodging to unrestrained personal freedom, this film refuses to avoid controversial topics. Erica Gavin’s electrifying performance as Vixen drives the story, blending independence with unapologetic sensuality. Her character’s exploration of taboo subjects was groundbreaking, and Gavin herself shines in her retrospective commentary, which is included in the bonus features.

The restoration ensures that Meyer’s visuals, particularly his use of the natural wilderness, leap off the screen. While some aspects of the film may feel dated, their bold vision still resonates. The bonus feature detailing the film’s censorship battles adds rich context to its significance as a First Amendment triumph. Overall, VIXEN emerges as a provocative piece of entertainment and a pivotal work in the history of American independent cinema.

Arguably one of Meyer’s most extravagant productions, SUPERVIXENS amplifies his signature style to a level of near-cartoonish absurdity. This film is an unapologetic thrill ride, filled with over-the-top characters and a storyline that combines violence, sex, and humor into a frenetic odyssey. Shari Eubank delivers a memorable performance, while Charles Napier’s portrayal of a psychotic cop adds a chilling edge to the chaos. The nonstop pacing and vivid visual style make it an unforgettable entry in Meyer’s filmography.

The UHD restoration showcases the film’s vibrant colors and dynamic cinematography, while the bonus features, including an interview with Napier and a rare episode of ‘The Incredibly Strange Film Show,’ provide deeper insights into its production and reception. Although some modern viewers may find the exaggerated characters and situations polarizing, SUPERVIXENS exemplifies Meyer’s unique ability to blend satire with sensationalism. Its unapologetic embrace of excess remains its greatest strength and most divisive quality.

Meyer’s final feature film, BENEATH THE VALLEY OF THE ULTRAVIXENS, culminates his career-long exploration of satire and sensuality. Co-written with Roger Ebert (yep, seriously,) it critiques small-town America while revealing in its absurdities. Kitten Natividad’s performance as the leading lady is comedic and commanding, serving as the linchpin for this wildly unconventional narrative. Meyer’s playful yet pointed approach to themes of morality, hypocrisy, and sexual liberation is on full display.

Due to the deteriorated condition of the original negatives, restoring this film posed unique challenges. Severin Films’ painstaking efforts result in a stunning 4K presentation that preserves the film’s energy. Bonus features like Meyer’s infamous Tucson talk show appearance offer a glimpse into the filmmaker’s process and personality. While BENEATH THE VALLEY OF THE ULTRAVIXENS may not be for everyone, its audacity and creative ambition make it an essential part of Meyer’s legacy.

Severin Films’ commitment to honoring Russ Meyer’s work extends beyond restoration. The bonus features explore each film’s cultural impact and the controversies they sparked. Audio commentaries by Meyer provide firsthand insights into his vision, while new interviews and featurettes contextualize the movie for contemporary audiences.

While these films are undeniably products of their time, they also challenge conventions in ways that remain relevant. Meyer’s portrayal of women as both empowered and exaggerated figures can be seen as progressive and problematic, depending on one’s perspective. His penchant for hyper-stylized narratives and larger-than-life characters is integral to his storytelling approach. The restoration process highlights the technical brilliance of his cinematography, even as some elements of the films feel intentionally outlandish. I was shocked at how incredible these films looked; I don’t mean to beat a dead horse here, but the restoration feels perfect.

This collection is not just an upgrade in visual and audio quality—it’s a celebration of a filmmaker who dared to challenge norms and embrace controversy. Russ Meyer captures the spirit of independent cinema at its most fearless, blending satire, sensuality, and critique into unforgettable experiences. Severin Films went above and beyond to preserve and present these works, ensuring that their legacy endures for future generations. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Meyer’s world, this release offers a comprehensive and engaging journey into the mind of one of America’s most provocative filmmakers.

Special Features for VIXEN
UHD:
Archival Audio Commentary With Co-Writer/Producer/Cinematographer/Co-Editor/Director Russ Meyer
Audio Commentary With Actress Erica Gavin
Trailer

BLU-RAY/DVD:
1981 Censor Prologue (Theatrical Re-Release)
Archival Audio Commentary With Co-Writer/Producer/Cinematographer/Co-Editor/Director Russ Meyer
Audio Commentary With Actress Erica Gavin
Woman… Or Animal? – Interviews With Actors Erica Gavin And Harrison Page
David Del Valle's The Sinister Image With Guests Russ Meyer And Yvette Vickers
Entertainment… Or Obscenity? – Marc Edward Heuck On The Film's Historic Cincinnati Censorship Battles
Trailer

Special Features for SUPERVIXENS
UHD:
Archival Audio Commentary With Writer/Cinematographer/Editor/Producer/Director Russ Meyer
Trailer

BLU-RAY/DVD:
Archival Audio Commentary With Writer/Cinematographer/Editor/Producer/Director Russ Meyer
Russ Meyer Versus The Porn-Busters – Mike Carroll Interview With Russ Meyer
The Man With The Square Jaw – Interview With Actor Charles Napier
The Incredibly Strange Film Show Season 1, Episode 5: Russ Meyer
Trailer
TV Spot

Special Features for BENEATH THE VALLEY OF THE ULTRAVIXENS
UHD:
Archival Audio Commentary With Co-Writer/Producer/Cinematographer/Editor/Director Russ Meyer
Trailer

BLU-RAY/DVD:
Archival Audio Commentary With Co-Writer/Producer/Cinematographer/Editor/Director Russ Meyer
The Latin Brünhilde – Interview With Actress Kitten Natividad
Talk It Over – Ellen Adelstein Interviews Russ Meyer For Her Tucson Talk Show In 1979
Still Talking It Over – New Interview With Ellen Adelstein
Trailer

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[photo courtesy of SEVERIN FILMS]

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