A Place Beyond Shame

A Place Beyond Shame, directed by Fred J. Lincoln and Sharon Mitchell, is an intriguing yet flawed adult film. The plot centers on Seka, a computer programmer who suddenly develops an aversion to sex. To remedy this, she visits a hypnotherapist, played by Paul Thomas, who uses hypnosis to help her overcome her sexual inhibitions.

The film is essentially a 'loop carrier', a term used to describe adult films that use a thin narrative to string together various sex scenes. In this case, most of the scenes are presented as dream sequences or hallucinations that Seka experiences during her hypnotic trance. What sets A Place Beyond Shame apart from other films of its kind are the smooth transitions and psychedelic music that accompany these scenes, creating a somewhat surreal and trippy viewing experience.

Seka is undoubtedly the highlight of the film. Her natural beauty and on-screen charisma shine, even when the material doesn't do her justice. Watching Seka finger her pink anus is a joy and will no doubt please her legions of fans.

However, the film falls short in terms of its story and direction. The premise is intriguing, but the execution is lacking, and the film fails to explore the emotional depth of Seka's character or the potential implications of her shame. The hypnosis angle feels underdeveloped, and the dream sequences, though visually interesting, don't add much to the narrative.

That being said, A Place Beyond Shame is still an enjoyable watch for fans of classic adult entertainment. It's a prime example of the low-budget, VHS-era films that were popular in the early 1980s. While it may not be a hardcore classic, it has a certain charm and is definitely easy on the eyes.

For viewers seeking a well-crafted story or innovative direction, this film may not satisfy. However, for those seeking a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of adult cinema, A Place Beyond Shame offers a glimpse into a world beyond shame, where Seka's hypnotic journey will leave a lasting impression.

Same Time Every Year (1981)

* 1/2 (out of 4)

Place for Shame, A (1981)

** (out of 4)

Fred Lincoln will always be best remembered for his role as Weasel in Wes Craven's 1972 shocker but what most people don't know is that Lincoln has over three-hundred director credits to his name. These are all hardcore flicks with these two being released as a double-feature from Alpha Blue Archives.

SAME TIME EVERY YEAR has three male friends going on the same business trip each and every year. That's just what they tell their wives as they're really getting away to have some fun with other women. Their wives aren't very faithful either. A PLACE BEYOND SHAME features Seka playing, well herself, a woman who can't stand to have a man touch her. Her best friend recommends she go see a shrink and before long she's back in action.

Neither one of these films are going to be talked about as hardcore classics but I guess, to be fair, their are prime examples of those low-budget items that were probably making a killing on VHS back in the early part of the 80s. Neither film has anything that really stands out in terms of quality so if you're looking for story, direction or any type of style then it's best to look elsewhere. Of the two films I'd say A PLACE FOR SHAME is a little better as Seka is at least easy on the eyes. I found the story of her being scared to have sex rather funny and her acting makes for a few good laughs especially the scene where the shrink and her friend try to teach her how to have sex. SAME TIME EVERY YEAR is pretty much wall-to-wall sex with very little in terms of a story. We're told what the story is early on and then after that it's hard to keep up with who's sleeping with who. Ron Jeremy makes a quick stop here so fans of his might want to check this out.