Mardi Gras is the celebration of hedonism; when men and women engage in sex acts in the open street; when perfect strangers become perfect sex mates. It all sounds very exciting. That's why I'm surprised Essex Video managed to make it the focus of such an unexciting feature. A weak plot, limp sex and below-par production qualities are not what I've come to expect from this company, and Mardi Gras does nothing to excite me about this hedonistic holiday.

Barbara Dare and Melissa Melendez are two roommates who go to Mardis Gras to live out their sexual fantasies. But we are also treated to a whole host of characters who indulge their libidos in a variety of sexual pleasures. Lili Marlene deserves mentioning for her role as the "shy" schoolteacher who agrees to an airplane "john" ride with Jon Martin. Marlene is energetic and really looks like she enjoys what she's doing. and she's also good in the orgy. Dare, who has received endless praise here before, does not turn in one of her better performances. Even her sexual energy can't revive her lame characters. Melendez, on the other hand, looks better and more turned on here than I've ever seen her.

Bob Vosse's direction resembles that of a rookie's more than the seasoned pro that he is. His camera comes too close at times, and you can't see any of the action. His decision to leave out music on some of the sex scenes does nothing to enhance their sexual quality. If you have a chance to go to Mardis Gras, go! Don't expect this video to give you a real feel for this holiday.