This later-period Sarno feature is a lot more explicit than his earlier, more significant work, and eschews the social commentary that made them so trenchant. Nonetheless, his artistry is on display to a high degree. The film is made quite mesmerizing through the Dreyer-like chiaroscuro photography, the playful jazz score and the dreamlike editing. The performances are enthusiastic and the premise a sly dig at Sarno's own beginnings. The lead actress is quite striking and believable as an enthusiastic innocent. Not a major work, but perhaps his finest contribution to straightforward eroticism. Clever title, too.
Review of Desire Under the Palms
