At the mere mention of the name, eyes roll and brows furrow, typically evoking reactions of either perverse pleasure or derisive disgust. Based on the reign of the notoriously sadistic and perverted Roman emperor of the same name, this erotic historical epic is widely considered to be the most controversial (and catastrophic) film in cinematic history. Now that Penthouse is free of Bob Guccione‘s grasp, the company has bravely undertaken the seemingly thankless task of re-editing, re-mastering, and re-releasing this misunderstood masterpiece as a 3-disc set — and I for one am glad they did.
As a big fan of both the ancient world and pornography, I’ve always loved this film. In fact, my best friend (and pagan high priest) Lord Julian “” who shares my aforementioned affinities “” and I have even taken to shouting “CALIGULA!” at moments of extreme debauchery and/or brutality. But despite my former interest, it wasn’t until I watched the extensive documentaries, interviews, and commentaries on this edition that I learned all the sordid details of the movie’s past.
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Students of the Unusual™ comic cover used with permission of 3BoysProductions
The Mercuri Bros.™ comic cover used with permission of Prodigal Son Press
