Revelations discusses a woman's self-discovery in a post-censorship society, in which the Security Police for the "New Order" closely monitor the sexual activity of all the society's inhabitants. This is an apocalyptic vision for the '90s (one that's hopefully been derailed by the national Bush/Religious Right defeat) and a staggering piece of social commentary. Although real-life New York City locations have obviously been used, the sense of impending dread is ever-present, in every action and speech by victims and servants of the "New Order." In fact, it's quite reminiscent of the 1956 version of Orwell's 1984.

But as far as eroticism goes, it's merely a full-length tease. The feature's depictions of sexuality are mainly confined to the secret room discovered by the film's protagonist (Amy Rapp), where she views a sumptuous meal of carnality in the form of videotapes of Nicole and Martin London, touching, caressing, fondling, sucking — then just as things begin to sizzle, it stops, saying, "No, you may not actually have any of this." A definite sexual let-down, but quite in keeping with this film's message. After all, historically speaking, sexual repression has been used by governments to regiment the populace — but it's also formed the basis for many a revolution. Paris Phillips and Ava Grace provide the only other pseudo-hardcore in a girl/girler that, once again, leaves the viewer frustrated and feeling incomplete — but hopefully ready to head for the barricades and kick some censorship butt.

This is a high quality production, despite its overall dark, downbeat tone. Political art (which this is) tends to vary from very good to awful, and it's rarely very sexy — yet this one manages to generate a powerful (if bleak) message — and its share of heat in spots. This form of sex film may appeal to some couples, and because of the overall quality of the film, retailers should stock it.  But those looking for hardcore might be a bit disappointed at the very soft nature of the piece.