She Devils of the SS

She Devils of the SS is a 1969 sexploitation film directed by Jesús Franco, known for his work on numerous low-budget productions in the Eurospy, sexploitation, and adult film genres. The movie is set in Germany during the final days of World War II, amidst the crumbling Nazi regime. Against this backdrop of chaos and uncertainty, the film delves into the themes of survival, morality, and desire. The story centers around a group of women who volunteer to serve in the front lines, ostensibly to provide emotional support to the brave German soldiers fighting for their country. These women, known as the "She Devils of the SS," form part of a secret program designed to boost morale and keep the male soldiers motivated to fight. The lead character, Eva (played by Soledad Miranda), is a strong-willed and seductive woman who is handpicked to lead this elite group of female volunteers. As they begin their service, the women are tasked with providing intimate companionship to the Nazi soldiers, often in the midst of intense combat. The film presents a somewhat sanitised depiction of these encounters, focusing more on the psychological effects of war on the women rather than explicit content. However, as the story unfolds, the relationships between the women begin to blur the lines between duty and desire. They start to engage in romantic and sexual relationships with each other, adding a layer of complexity to their already tumultuous situation. The increasing danger from the Soviet army and the crumbling German defenses create a sense of urgency, heightening the tension and emotional stakes for the characters. One of the characters, a young and beautiful woman named Frieda, is depicted as a vulnerable and fragile individual who struggles to cope with the demands of her new role. As she becomes embroiled in a romantic relationship with another woman, her sense of identity and belonging begins to shift. This subplot raises important questions about the effects of war on individuals, particularly women, and the fluidity of human desire. Meanwhile, the Soviet army closes in on Germany, exacting a heavy toll on the German forces and populace. In the midst of this chaos, the She Devils of the SS are forced to confront the harsh realities of their situation. They must decide whether to continue serving the Nazi regime or take matters into their own hands and forge their own path. Throughout the film, Franco employs his signature style, blending elements of drama, eroticism, and melodrama to create a cinematic experience that is both unsettling and fascinating. The use of long takes, low-angle shots, and atmospheric lighting helps to build a sense of tension and foreboding, underscoring the dangers faced by the characters. Ultimately, She Devils of the SS presents a provocative and thought-provoking exploration of human nature, desire, and the effects of war on individuals. While the film has been criticized for its explicit content and treatment of the characters, it also serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by women during wartime. In the context of the film's release in 1969, She Devils of the SS was widely seen as a work of provocative and transgressive cinema, pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. As a cinematic experience, the film remains a fascinating and unsettling look at the intersection of desire, morality, and war, offering a perspective on the human condition that is both haunting and thought-provoking. While the film's reputation as a sexploitation masterpiece has endured, it also remains a work of historical significance, offering a glimpse into the experiences of women during World War II. By exploring the complexities of human desire and the effects of war on individuals, She Devils of the SS remains a powerful and unsettling testament to the enduring power of cinema to challenge, provoke, and inspire.