Double Agent 73

"Double Agent 73" is a 1974 exploitation film that stars Chesty Morgan, an entertainer known for her extremely large bust, which featured prominently in the film's narrative and promotional materials. Directed by Doris Wishman, a filmmaker notable for her work in the exploitation genre, "Double Agent 73" follows the story of undercover operative Jane Genet (Chesty Morgan), who is tasked with a unique and high-stakes mission that pushes the boundaries of espionage.

Jane Genet, the film's protagonist, is an agent for an unspecified government or organization, and she operates under the codename "Double Agent 73". As the film unfolds, audiences are taken into Jane's covert world, where danger and deception are part of everyday life. Her commanding presence and distinct physical traits make her a memorable character, often using her femininity and allure to her advantage in her line of work.

The movie is a sequel to Wishman's earlier 1973 film, "Deadly Weapons," another feature headlining Chesty Morgan, and it builds upon the campy and surrealist elements introduced in its predecessor. In "Double Agent 73," Jane Genet is equipped with an unusual gadget that embodies the film's blend of sexploitation and spy genre tropes: a camera has been surgically implanted in her ample cleavage, enabling her to surreptitiously photograph her targets. This device must be activated by pressing her breasts at the opportune moment, a gimmick that reflects the film's offbeat sense of humor and exploitation pedigree.

The storyline sees Genet embroiled in a plot that is as outrageous as it is perilous. Her mission: to gather photographic evidence against a group of nefarious individuals involved in a variety of criminal activities. These antagonists, however, are not merely run-of-the-mill villains; they are eccentric characters that match the film's over-the-top nature, and Genet must utilize all her cunning and resourcefulness to infiltrate their ranks and obtain the information she needs.

Frank Silvano and Saul Meth are among the supporting cast who contribute to the film's zany and sometimes disorienting atmosphere. Their characters, along with a host of others, weave in and out of the narrative, at times leading the audience down confusing plot twists and turns. As Jane Genet navigates a world of double-crosses and shady dealings, her loyalty and skills are tested to the utmost.

"Double Agent 73" is characteristic of exploitation cinema of the era. It capitalizes on shock value, audacious narrative devices, and a heavy emphasis on the physical attributes of its star. The film combines elements of thriller, action, and drama, but does so with a tongue-in-cheek approach that typifies Doris Wishman's directorial style. Audiences can expect deliberately low-budget production values, unconventional editing, and a brazen rejection of mainstream cinematic norms.

In keeping with the exploitation genre, the movie features scenes that are designed to titillate and provoke, often blurring the line between art and tastelessness. "Double Agent 73" doesn't shy away from violence and sexuality, though it handles these themes in a way that is more campy and sensational than realistic or graphic.

The cinematography and overall aesthetic of "Double Agent 73" are as distinctive as its plotline. Wishman's characteristic use of odd camera angles, focus on inanimate objects, and choppy editing contribute to the film's offbeat presentation. From a narrative standpoint, logic and coherency sometimes take a backseat to visual spectacle and the shock factor.

Doris Wishman was known for working outside the Hollywood system, crafting low-budget features that catered to niche audiences seeking alternative cinema experiences. In this context, "Double Agent 73" is an exemplar; it's a film that seems to revel in its own absurdity and flies in the face of convention. Its appeal lies not in its narrative coherence or technical proficiency, but in its ability to entertain and shock through sheer audacity and spectacle.

It's worth noting that while "Double Agent 73" could be viewed as a reflection of the liberated sexuality of the 1970s, it might also be criticized for its objectification of women and for its crudeness. However, some audiences and critics regard the film as a cult classic, appreciating it within the context of its time and genre.

In summary, "Double Agent 73" is an exploitation film that combines elements of espionage, action, and sexploitation into a unique cinematic experience. With Chesty Morgan at the helm, the movie presents a vivid and outlandish depiction of a female spy's adventures, punctuated by Doris Wishman's distinctive filmmaking style. The film remains a curiosity within the exploitation genre, appreciated by aficionados of cult and B-movies for its distinctiveness, and it occupies a special place in the pantheon of 1970s exploitation cinema.