That's Roman Porno: Smile of Goddesses

That's Roman Porno: Smile of Goddesses is a groundbreaking documentary that delves into the world of Roman Porno, a renowned Japanese adult film series created by Toei Company. Spanning from 1971 to 1988, Roman Porno is known for pushing the boundaries of adult cinema by exploring mature themes, complex narratives, and strong female characters. The documentary serves as a comprehensive tribute to this iconic series, offering a kaleidoscopic glimpse into the evolution of Roman Porno over nearly two decades. The film begins by establishing the context in which Roman Porno was born. Shot in the early 1970s, during a time of great social change in Japan, Roman Porno sought to challenge conventional standards by tackling topics deemed taboo at the time. These early films were marked by their exploration of themes such as love, desire, and the struggles faced by women in a male-dominated society. The documentary highlights key scenes from these pioneering films, showcasing the striking beauty and charisma of the actresses involved, including Noriko Hayami and Erika Shishido. As the years pass, Roman Porno continues to expand its creative horizons. Filmmakers began to experiment with new styles, incorporating elements of art-house cinema and psychological drama into their work. The documentary explores this growth, presenting a selection of clips from films that pushed the boundaries of storytelling in adult cinema. One notable example includes the 1978 film "Flesh Market," directed by Shuji Kataoka. This film tells the poignant story of a young woman's descent into prostitution, a subject matter that was considered radical for the time. Throughout the documentary, That's Roman Porno: Smile of Goddesses highlights the talented cast of actresses who helped shape the Roman Porno series. Actresses such as Naomi Tani and Emiko Imanishi became household names, thanks to their captivating performances in a range of films. The documentary also shines a light on the lesser-known talents who played pivotal roles in shaping the series. The documentary also delves into the creative process of Roman Porno's leading directors, including the enigmatic Koyu Ohara and the masterful Shuzo Matsuhashi. These filmmakers, known for their innovative storytelling and visual style, played a crucial role in elevating Roman Porno to new artistic heights. Interviews and behind-the-scenes footage offer a glimpse into their working process, highlighting the dedication and passion that went into crafting each film. One of the key aspects of Roman Porno that sets it apart from other adult film series is its ability to balance titillation with nuanced storytelling. The documentary showcases several films that successfully walk this tightrope, blending eroticism with drama and social commentary. "Slave to Pleasure," a 1981 film directed by Norifumi Suzuki, serves as a prime example of this. The film explores themes of desire, consent, and the complexities of human relationships, raising questions that are both thought-provoking and provocative. That's Roman Porno: Smile of Goddesses concludes by reflecting on the impact of Roman Porno on the Japanese film industry. By pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms, Roman Porno helped pave the way for future generations of filmmakers. Today, Roman Porno is recognized as an influential force in the world of adult cinema, and its legacy continues to inspire new filmmakers. The documentary ends with a stunning montage of clips from some of the most iconic Roman Porno films. The montage serves as a testament to the enduring power of Roman Porno, a series that continues to captivate audiences with its complex characters, nuanced storytelling, and sensual beauty. As the credits roll, viewers are left with a sense of admiration for the pioneers of Roman Porno, whose innovative spirit and creative vision helped shape a new era in adult cinema.