The third entry in Vivid’s Rites series, inevitably invites a comparison with Falcon’s Other Side of Aspen Part II.  Both features are set in ski resorts, both are exceptionally well-photographed, and both feature a mysterious stranger in a ski mask (in this case a burglar).  Both also share the same flaw: a miscast Thomas.  In Aspen it’s Kurt; here it’s Neil who doesn’t quite click as a superstud cop.

But for my money, Rites Of Winter comes out ahead for two simple reasons: the lighthearted unity provided by Les Stine’s frustrated lust for Alex Stone and the finely directed sexual encounter between Chris Ladd and Tim Lowe.  If I was disappointed in the ending, it was because the focus shifted from Stine and Stone to the masked burglar; judged on its own merits, the final scene is cleverly erotic.  And it’s not often that I care enough about the characters to feel disappointment.  For that accomplishment, director Dennis deserves a big hand.  Great packaging and a fine sexvid all around.  Worth stocking.