This review is for the UK VHS release called Masquerade. This Italian-made erotic thriller is typical of the genre that was being churned out en mass during this period. Unusually though, this one started out as a hardcore porn film but for UK audiences it fell foul of the dreaded BBFC and so only a soft version could legally be seen. The main cast members of Teri Weigel, Rocco Siffredi, Raven and Joey Silvera all made their names in hardcore porn.

An antiques dealer in the Italian city of Florence who was about to spill the beans about shady goings on in the art world is murdered by an unknown assailant. Undercover cop Linda Forrester (Raven) is sent to Florence where she teams up with her Italian counterpart Guido Moranto (Joey Silvera). Art collector Anesto has had several works of art stolen and as investigations continue, it is apparent that members of his staff and family have secrets that they would rather keep hidden. All the while, the killer is stalking new victims. There are twists to the plot that leaves room for a sequel that seems not to have been made.

Why this film was made as hardcore porn is a bit of a mystery. Most of the time is devoted to the plot so that there would have been little reason to include the hard stuff. What sex and nudity there is seems a bit coy at times. A net curtain is hung between the camera and Anna and Roberto; Sandra keeps her dressing gown on during one of her sex scenes; Raven probably gives the best performance, being absolutely stunning. The film makers seemed to be confused about what it was they actually wanted. The character of Linda did not ring true during one scene when she was accosted by a homeless drunk. Although she is supposed to be a cop, she played the helpless damsel in distress. Earlier when she and Guido met the same drunk, Guido wandered off leaving Linda to fend for herself. When the drunk walked away, Guido comes back and says that he will always protect her. Fat chance! The Italian dialogue was dubbed into English and quite well done although delivery sounded flat and slow. I was going to give this film 4 stars but the incredible Raven has bumped it up to 6.

The crime genre features criminal activities, investigations, law enforcement, crimes, and the pursuit of justice. Crime stories often revolve around the planning, execution, and consequences of criminal acts, as well as the efforts to solve and prevent such acts. They explore various aspects of criminal behavior, motives, and the moral dilemmas faced by both perpetrators and those seeking to uphold the law.

James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, Sharon Angela, Max Casella, Dan Grimaldi, Joe Perrino, Donna Pescow, Jamie Lynn Sigler, Tony Sirico, and Michael Drayer in The Sopranos (1999)

The mystery genre features the investigation and solving of a puzzle, typically a crime or an enigmatic event. Mysteries are known for their suspenseful narratives, intricate plots, and the challenge they present to readers or viewers to piece together clues and solve the central mystery alongside the characters.

Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, and Kelvin Harrison Jr. in Chinatown (1974)

The thriller genre features suspense, tension, and excitement. These stories are known for keeping audiences on the edge of their seats and delivering intense emotional experiences by revolving around high-stakes situations, dangerous conflicts, and the constant anticipation of unexpected events.

Get a closer look at some of Hollywood's perfect pairs.

Hollywood Power Couples

Get a closer look at some of Hollywood&#39;s perfect pairs.

"The Gentlemen" and "Slow Horses" return this fall, while the "Reacher" spin-off series "Neagley" makes its debut. See our guide of the biggest Fall TV and streaming releases.

2026 Fall TV and Streaming Watch Guide

&quot;The Gentlemen&quot; and &quot;Slow Horses&quot; return this fall, while the &quot;Reacher&quot; spin-off series &quot;Neagley&quot; makes its debut. See our guide of the biggest Fall TV and streaming releases.

Get a closer look at these actors from their many TV and streaming series roles.

The Black Gloves

Top Cast8

User reviews2

Related interests

Storyline

Did you know

Top picks

Details

Tech specs

Contribute to this page

More to explore

Recently viewed