Masseuse II

Paul Thomas's "The Masseuse" and its Jenna Jameson remake stand out among the best Adult features ever made, and this forgotten followup to the Hyapatia Lee starring original is magnificent in its own right. It demonstrates the legitimate theater approach PT often took toward directing movies, and it works in both the dramatic and the sex scenes.

I saw this one back in the VHS era, and it holds up well watching it recently on DVD. One key element contributing to its success is the use of concise, brief sex scenes, packing in 7 of them in less than an hour and a half running time, counter to today's XXX wherein only 2 or 3 elongated "real-time" sex vignettes would fit.

Playing like a soap opera, we watch the travails of Ashlyn Gere as a prostitute who's nominal profession is masseuse. Her strong dramatic performance dominates the film, but there are many other interesting characters. In a non-sex role as a budding screenwriter, Candy Marie Saint is terrific, while fellow hooker Asia Carrera shares the XXX burden with Gere.

Nominal bad guys are well-limned by Randy West and Steven St. Croix, and the drama builds to violent and strong climax, with Asia's hubby Bud Lee cameo performance near the end as a priest.

A perfect example of the dividing line between today's mindless porn and the Golden Era (plus followups, this one having been made a decade after the cinema-exhibition era ended) predecessors.

Paul Thomas is one of the few commercial porno-directors who try to do something beyond just showing the sex and getting the cash, and in this little film he actually gives life to a plot that's both thoughtful and philosophical. The film studies self-hatred, guilt and the misguided attempt at reconciliation through meaningless and agressive sexual acts. The characters try to establish control by committing to non-satisfactory lovemaking, as they drape their real identities in technicalities or fancy names, and the pair, Asia Carrera and Ashlyn Gere, do their jobs with no less skill than actresses in conventional films. 'The masseuse 2' tells the story of two masseuses who struggle against themselves and the total degradation of their souls as they casually step onwards in their illusive lives and become straight-out hookers. This is good porn, although those who prefer their sex to be non-violent, clean and without any inner stimula should stear clear.

Paul Thomas's "Masseuse II" is a provocative journey into the complex lives of two masseuses, played by the talented Ashlyn Gere and Asia Carrera. This adult film delves into the psychological depths of its characters, exploring themes of self-hatred, guilt, and the elusive search for reconciliation.

The movie begins by introducing us to Ashlyn, a woman leading a double life. By day, she's a provocative masseuse in a seedy parlor, but by night, she transforms into a woman of sophistication, enjoying the company of her wealthy boyfriend. This duality, however, is disrupted by a singular, life-changing event, setting the tone for the soul-searching odyssey that follows.

The film shines a light on the characters' inner turmoil as they grapple with their identities and attempt to exert control through non-fulfilling sexual encounters. One particularly memorable scene involves a passionate and explicit tryst between Ashlyn, the sultry Kristina West, and Randy West. In a blur of bodies and desire, the three engage in a steamy threesome, their moans filling the room. Ashlyn, with her blonde locks cascading over her shoulders, takes center stage, her skills as a masseuse on full display as she uses her hands, mouth, and body to pleasure her partners, driving them wild with desire.

The acting in "Masseuse II" is commendable, with both Ashlyn and Asia delivering strong performances that elevate the film. They bring depth to their characters, portraying the internal struggle and degradation of their souls as they descend into a life of prostitution.

This movie is not for the faint-hearted or those seeking light and playful erotica. It explores the darker side of human desire, and the sex scenes, while brief and concise, are intense and at times, aggressive. The philosophical undertones add an interesting layer to the story, setting it apart from typical adult entertainment.

While it boasts impressive acting and an intriguing plot, the heavy focus on philosophical themes and aggressive sexual content may not appeal to all viewers. This is a thought-provoking and explicit journey into the depths of human desire, and its impact lingers long after the credits roll.

An intriguing and titillating watch for those who dare to explore the darker side of erotic cinema.