The Naked Zoo

This William Grefe production is surprisingly an entertaining film. One of Rita Hayworth's final films, it's a story of double dealings, murder, and suspense. Hayworth, at 52, looks as attractive as ever. She always kept herself in great shape. Sort of sad to see this once great star reduced to this "B" South Florida made movie, but she gives an above average performance; considering the script and budget, that's pretty darn good. Grefe fills his supporting cast with his group of favorites; singer/actor/record producer Steve Alaimo, and former light-heavyweight boxing champ Willie Pastrano. The show however is "stolen" by the acting talents of "cult" acting legend Joe. "Ooh! Ooh!" E. Ross. And there's even t.v.'s Peyton Place regular Stephen Oliver(he played Lee Weber 1966-68 on the hit show)in his best on-screen role. A must-see for fans of Rita Hayworth. I'd rate this film a 9 out of 10.

This movie is really, really boring. There's lots of "partying" and drug use - this takes up most of the movie and seems like anti-drug anti-hippie propaganda (but it probably isn't meant to be). Occasionally there is female topless nudity. The lead character, when he isn't partying or drugged out of his mind, apparently hooks up with several women daily (sometimes even multiple women sequentially at the same party!) - sometimes even getting paid to do so. Beyond that, there is very little plot. And by very little, I mean zero. The main character abuses people, parties and does drugs and has sex, and then it's over. Oh, and the band Canned Heat is there for some reason, looking like they wore the same clothes for 2 weeks straight without taking a shower. The only reason to watch this is for curiosity about one of Rita Hayworth's last roles, but otherwise don't waste your time.

Really terrible film with a loathsome main character, horrible acting from everyone but Rita, hideous photography and costuming.

Poor Rita, in her last substantial part-thank goodness it wasn't her last credit, at least is spared the indignity of having to act with the group of no talents assembled for the picture. All her scenes seem to have been filmed in a different location and the only other actor she has any interaction with is lead actor, Steven Oliver. The only other minor point of interest, and it's slight, is the appearance in one of the party scenes of the 60's band Canned Heat. They aren't bad nor are they very memorable but at least they have some talent which is more than can be said for 95% of the cast.

If it's not the bottom of the barrel it's awfully close.