A Life in Dirty Movies

A Life in Dirty Movies is a captivating 2013 documentary film directed by Wiktor Ericsson. The movie presents an intimate portrayal of the legendary sexploitation director Joseph W. Sarno and his wife, Peggy Steffans, a former actress in Sarno's films. The narrative offers an intriguing look into the world of adult filmmaking as well as the lives of two of its most iconic figures.

The film opens by taking us back in time, introducing us to Sarno's earlier days in the 1960s and '70s when he directed a series of erotic and sexually-charged films, earning him a reputation as the 'Ingmar Bergman of 42nd Street.' Sarno was quite an anomaly in the adult filmmaking industry - unlike the usual exploitation movies prevalent during that era, his works were lauded for their strong character-driven plots, psychological depth, and nuanced representation of human sexuality.

Sarno's wife Peggy Steffans, herself a part of the adult film industry, brings a fascinating dimension to the storyline. Together, they moved through their later years in the industry, navigating the evolving landscape of adult filmmaking, and the adjustments it demanded.

The documentary does not shy away from the less glamorous side of the industry and the couple's life. It examines the strain on their relationship and the challenges of keeping their careers alive in an industry that has drastically changed since they first entered it. The couple's villa in Stockholm, Sweden sets the backdrop for much of the personal aspects of this documentary. We are introduced to their everyday life, their interactions, and the reality of aging in a youth-focused industry.

Balancing the seriousness of its theme with a notable streak of humor, the film also succeeds in delivering a vivid snapshot of an era within the sexploitation movie industry, recounted by those who pioneered and experienced it. Throughout the narrative, the viewer is treated to behind-the-scenes commentary and insights from critics, scholars, peers, and younger filmmakers, all shedding light on the artistic and cultural significance of Sarno's work.

Joseph Sarno is depicted as an unwaveringly driven filmmaker, dedicated to his craft despite the numerous obstacles he encountered over the years. Another character that stands out is Peggy Steffans, who shines as a strong-willed woman who stands by her husband, giving us a glimpse at her journey as an actress to becoming Sarno's fiercest supporter as she tries to keep his legacy alive.

Apart from focusing on the couple’s personal and professional life, the film includes a subplot about Sarno striving to make one final movie. This quest to create a last masterpiece adds a poignant layer to the film, providing a deeper insight into the artistic struggles that pervade even the most unconventional corners of the film industry.

Ericsson’s film is not just a portrait of an artist and his wife; it is also an illumination of an industry often treated with disdain and prejudice. The movie's triumph lies in its ability to humanize its subjects, integrating their life story with the narrative of a misunderstood genre of cinema. The documentary stands as an ode to Sarno's unique vision of erotic cinema, and to the couple's mutual dedication to that vision.

A Life in Dirty Movies manages to strip away preconceived notions about the adult film industry, presenting its subjects without judgment and with a profound respect for their contributions to the world of film. As a viewer, you become immersed in the world of Joseph and Peggy - two fascinating individuals who lived for cinema and artistry, providing a fresh, engaging, and empathetic viewpoint on a chapter of cinema history that is often overlooked.

The performances of Joseph W. Sarno, Peggy Steffans, and Michael J. Bowen, along with the compelling nature of the subject matter, make this documentary a must-see. Whether you're familiar with Sarno's oeuvre or not, A Life in Dirty Movies offers a detailed, well-rounded experience. It's a sensitive, insightful, and absorptive journey into the life and times of a unique filmmaker and the love of his life and muse - a tale of passion, cinema, and an unending pursuit of artistic fulfillment.