The star (Sonia Braga) and director (Bruno Barreto) of the erotic Brazilian comedy Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands and the arty I Love You have triumphed once again with Gabriela. It's an involving, deliberately-paced tale that's mandatory viewing for fans of foreign erotic cinema. In addition, Gabriela boasts even more nudity and graphic love scenes than Braga and Barreto's two previous efforts.

Most of the action takes place in a small Brazilian village in the year 1925. Gabriela (sexy Sonia) wanders into town and an aging innkeeper (Marcello Mastroianni) hires her as her cook. He takes her home and scores with her as she hangs outside a window. They eventually get married, but things soon turn sour. He's very protective of his gorgeous young wife while she secretly desires a night out on the town. And to make matters even worth, he's often too tired at night to satisfy his lusty lady. This situation forces Gabriela to have an affair.

Braga and Mastroianni shine in their respective roles. They also make a potent pair of lovers and both appear to relish their torrid sex scenes. Wide-eyed and initially innocent, Braga gradually develops a ravenous sexual appetite. Her numerous nude sex scenes are incredibly raw and they're as graphic as any this exotic actress has ever done. Mastroianni creates a strong three-dimensional character caught up in his own macho mentality. It's a beautifully realized performance for this legendary leading man.

All the creative elements in the film blend together to create a smooth concoction. The exquisite period production design and flashy costumes makes us feel as though we've been transported to another era. The photography is soft and available sunlight is used to create a naturalistic look. The theme music also has a wonderfully bouncy Brazilian beat.