Cherry, Harry & Raquel!

Cherry, Harry & Raquel!, an avant-garde film from 1969, is a fascinating dive into the cinema of exploitation, satire, and social commentary. Directed by the critically acclaimed Russ Meyer and scripted by Tom McGowan and Meyer himself, this film is a unique and tantalizing blend of different genres, including action, drama, and even elements of black comedy. The American-made movie stands out not only because of its bold themes but also for its atypical presentation style.

The film features an engrossing narrative that revolves around the main character, Harry, played with charisma by the talented Charles Napier. Harry is an enforcement officer in a small desert town near the Mexican border, embroiled in the highly controversial war on marijuana. Balancing his official duties with his personal vices, Harry navigates a world fraught with tensions and disputes. He is a man soulfully jaded by his work, finding solace in the company of his Furies-like consorts - Cherry and Raquel - played by captivating Linda Ashton and the sensual Larissa Ely.

Cherry is a local nurse known for her empathy and compassion. She is depicted as a woman of virtue and serenity, who finds herself entangled in a world far from her normal, peaceful life. On the other side, Raquel is a passionate but volatile immigrant and love-interest for Harry. Raquel's character is complex, showcasing a range of emotions and desires throughout the movie, which really tests the boundaries of morality and societal expectations.

For the casting, Meyer employed the use of real-life individuals rather than trained actors in many supporting roles. This choice added authenticity and boosted the narrative's credibility. Charles Napier, the familiar face in countless action films, successfully delivers an exceptional performance justifying the complex dimensions of his character, Harry. The contrasting personas of the ethereal Cherry and the mercurial Raquel are brought to life with commendable performances by Linda Ashton and Larissa Ely.

The feature uniquely leverages its daring narrative against a fascinating backdrop of conflicted humanity and controversial substances, far from the superficial stereotypes commonly seen. As Meyer's first 'outdoor' film, the stunning backdrops and landscapes of the arid desert lend an atmospheric ambiance that sets a tone echoing the characters’ internal struggles and moral contradictions.

Cherry, Harry & Raquel! exploits and critiques the sordid underground war on drugs while highlighting the hypocrisies and political corruption that lies beneath. With its edgy storytelling, the film is filled with unexpected turns and dark humor that leaves viewers guessing what may come next.

Staying true to the distinctive style of Russ Meyer, Cherry, Harry & Raquel! also weaves in elements of the erotic, linked with humor and viewed through a somewhat absurd lens. Throughout the film, Meyer presents these elements in a manner that is both titillating and satirical, never missing an opportunity to subvert expectations.

Visually, the film successfully combines unconventional editing aesthetics with cinematographic bravura. Out-of-sequence and frenzied montages, juxtaposed with slow-motion scenes, create an intense, somewhat psychedelic visual atmosphere. Despite its low-budget, the film's cinematography, courtesy of Meyer himself, is sure to leave viewers impressed.

The film's score also stands out, adding another layer to the movie's unique persona. William Loose's music, sparsely used yet effectively placed, further intensifies the racy, tumultuous narrative. The original tracks composed for the movie lend a moody atmosphere that perfectly complements the on-screen drama.

Despite some censorship constraints of its time, Cherry, Harry & Raquel! manages to evoke a sense of hedonism, unrest, and rebellion, giving the film a cult status in the genre. The film displays Russ Meyer's flair for juxtaposing sex, humor, violence, and social commentary in a stylistically distinct cinematic experience.

In conclusion, Cherry, Harry & Raquel! from 1969 is a noteworthy film that offers a challenging and diverse tale. Its unconventional narrative, regardless of the controversy it sparked upon release, is incredibly engaging. Meyer's unique directorial style and the cast's powerful performances cement this film as a true gem from a time of cinematic evolution.