The second and final part of this quite literally revealing documentary series explores the impact of 1970s British sex comedies and their unique blend of explicit content and humour on both the film industry and societal attitudes towards sex. Airing on Channel 4, this episode examines the stories of those who were involved in these productions, from filmmakers to stars, as they recount the highs and lows of this controversial genre.
The episode uncovers how X-rated films dominated high-street cinemas by 1975, challenging film censorship and prompting a response from anti-porn campaigner Mary Whitehouse, who sought to curb the explicit content. However, her efforts were met with a public desire for more risqué entertainment. The documentary also examines the work of adult magazine publisher David Sullivan, who ventured into film production, creating the record-breaking movie “Come Play with Me” and turning its star, Mary Millington, into a household name.
As the industry evolved, bigger-budget productions like “The Stud,” starring Joan Collins, emerged, bringing a degree of respectability to the genre. Yet, the rise of home video and the proliferation of cheap pornography ultimately led to the decline of cinema sex films.
Saucy! Secrets of the British Sex Comedy: Part 2 airs on Sunday, 4 August 2024, at 10:00 PM on Channel 4.
