Released | Oct 31st, 2002 |
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Director | Irving Klaw |
Company | Something Weird Video |
Cast | Bettie Page, Others |
Critical Rating | Not Yet Rated |
Genre | Alternative |
For those who are still wondering about some of the references in those songs in Hocky Horror Picture Show, this film, shot in glorious Eastman Color, clearly reveals why one lyric says, "God bless Lili St. Cyr." Varietease recreates a 1950s burlesque show, complete with songs, bad comedians, a female impersonator... and strippers, including the famous Bettie Page and the aforementioned St. Cyr. The gals never lose all of their clothes — nary a bare tit can be seen — but they do dance seductively, and the film as a whole is a slice of Americana that shouldn't be missed.
Also included are trailers for Varietease and Teaserama, both directed by the famous Irving Klaw, plus a b/w arcade loop (back in the days when "arcade" meant "film") of Bettie Page titled "Teaser Girl In High Heels," an excerpt with Page from Striporama, and audio commentary throughout by "nudie cutie" director and master showman David F. Friedman. Admittedly, the commentary usually doesn't relate directly to the film, but it's worth listening to for Friedman's reminiscences of the "old days" alone! A terrific package that belongs in every adult store's classics section.