Fresh
Thankfully, the film's hateful social commentary can be overlooked during its beguiling gonzo sex scenes.
Simon Abrams, Village Voice
The Beast
Just About The Most Outrageous Erotic Fantasy Ever Committed To Film.
1975 · 1h 38m · NOT RATED
Drama, Fantasy, Horror, Romance
Directed by
Walerian Borowczyk
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The Beast
Overview
The head of a failing French family thinks that fate has smiled down on him when the daughter of a wealthy man agrees to be married to his son. The daughter and her aunt then travel out to the French countryside to meet with the family, unaware that a mysterious 'beast' is stalking the vicinity.
Director and cast
- Walerian Borowczyk Director
- Sirpa Lane as Romilda de l'Esperance
- Lisbeth Hummel as Lucy Broadhurst
- Elisabeth Kaza as Virginia Broadhurst
- Pierre Benedetti as Mathurin de l'Esperance
- Guy Tréjan as Pierre de l'Esperance
- Roland Armontel as Priest
- Marcel Dalio as Duc Rammendelo De Balo (as Dalio)
- Robert Capia as Roberto Capia
- Pascale Rivault Cast
- Hassane Fall Cast
Critics on Rotten Tomatoes
Top critics, in their words
60%
Tomatometer
Fresh
Seen from its own amoral perspective, aided by Borowczyk's remarkable sense of framing and rhythm, La Bete is that rare achievement, a truly erotic film.
David Thompson, Time Out
Rotten
Mr. Borowczyk's handling of his actors and his themes is sledgehammer-heavy, painfully in keeping with his evident contempt for humanity.
Guy Flatley, New York Times
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