Indecent Desires

Indecent Desires is an intriguing psychological, low-budget cult classic that successfully marries eerie horror elements with a potent narrative dealing with dark human obsessions, desire, and the supernatural. Released in 1968, the film stars Sharon Kent, Trom Little, and Michael Alaimo in substantial roles. It is directed by notorious exploitation auteur Doris Wishman, who, despite her limited budget and controversial subject matter, became revered for her unique cinematic style and creative storytelling.

The film revolves around the character of Arthur, played by Michael Alaimo, an ordinary, unremarkable man laboring in the day-to-day monotony of a blue-collar job. However, beneath Arthur's ordinary exterior hides an increasingly unstable mind plagued by an overpowering, sinister fixation on a beautiful woman named Ann, compellingly portrayed by Sharon Kent. Ann is oblivious to Arthur's increasingly obsessive thoughts, living her life uncomplicatedly, which mostly revolves around her handsome boyfriend, narrated exquisitely by Trom Little.

As the narrative unwinds, Arthur stumbles upon a bizarre mystical artifact, an uncanny doll, bearing a strong resemblance to Ann. Remarkably, anything he does to the doll, Ann experiences too, physically and emotionally. He gains an unhealthy control over her without her ever knowing. He can effectively make her feel and do things willingly, even though they might be against her nature. This demented game perverts the line between illusion and reality in Arthur's world, escalating his ordinary fantasies into a grotesquely surreal reality.

Indecent Desires plots this surreal trajectory of Arthur's obsession, spiraling out of control, culminating into something truly horrifying. It is not only an unsettling exploration of the human mind's dark recesses but also a commentary on unchecked desires and power misuse. It signifies the dangerous potential of human lust and the drastic lengths to which isolation and unhealthy obsessions can drive a person.

Sharon Kent's performance as Ann is worthy of mention. She depicts the complex character of Ann, who finds herself inexplicably swaying between her mundane routines and sudden surges of bewildering emotions without understanding their source, with a nuanced poignancy that captivates the audience. Her ability to convey a range of emotions without speaking a word demonstrates her caliber and makes her stand out in this psychological drama.

Trom Little, as Ann's boyfriend, aptly complements the unfolding drama. His character, although initially detached from the mystery that entraps Ann, eventually becomes a vital link in resolving the enigma of escalating supernatural occurrences.

Alaimo's portrayal of Arthur is equally commendable. His transformation from a seemingly nondescript individual to a man consumed by dangerous obsessions possesses an eerie realism that haunts the viewers. His performance complements the uncanny plotline and maintains a subtly sinister atmosphere throughout the film.

Doris Wishman's trademark directorial style showcases the eerie, atmospheric artistry throughout the film. The low-budget aesthetics actually serve to heighten the overall sense of unease, and her use of unique camera angles and indirect dialogues intensify the film's suspenseful moments.

The cinematography, while simplistic and seemingly raw, adds a unique charm and an unsettling feel to the narrative. The lack of elaborate sets or props focuses the attention on characters and their psychological states, thereby enhancing the plot's impact.

The distinctive music by undisclosed contributors adds depth to the narrative, transforming scenes into sensory experiences. The movie's soundtrack successfully sets the tone, making scenes more immersive, particularly intensifying the psychological terror undertones.

Indecent Desires shines as a film that utilizes its budget constraints creatively, magnifying its story's thrilling elements through clever cinematographic techniques and strong performances. Despite the limited resources, Wishman successfully paints a chilling portrait of an ordinary man succumbing to his darkest desires.

This film might be from 1968, but its themes about control, dominance, and obsession remain relevant, ensuring that it continues to engage audiences even today. Indecent Desires is recommended for fans of psychological horror films and classic B-movies, offering an intriguing blend of suspense and horror with thought-provoking themes. While the film has its darker elements, it ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about unchecked human desires, making it worth exploring for movie enthusiasts.