Myriam Watteau, an actress known for her role in Fascination (1979), embodies the allure and danger of the erotic thriller genre. Set against a backdrop of sinister elegance, her performance captivates audiences, drawing them into a world where seduction intertwines with horror. Watteau's work in this film highlights the unique blend of eroticism and tension that defines cult cinema, making her a compelling figure in the exploration of these themes. With Fascination, she contributes to the rich tapestry of grindhouse and exploitation films that continue to intrigue genre enthusiasts.
Fascination
This erotic horror film, set in 1905, tells the story of a thief who seeks refuge in a castle owned by two women, Eva (Brigitte Lahaie) and Elizabeth (Franca Mai). The women are seductive and teasing, but turn out to be part of a vampiric cult of blood-drinking aristocrats. Fascination is a very apt title for this spellbinding movie! A typically dreamlike and stylish work from the remarkable Jean Rollin. Yup, it’s another lesbian vampire movie (from a decade that produced quite a few!) but Rollin, like Jess Franco, puts his own original touches to it which make it truly unforgettable. Like most of Franco’s (and Dario Argento’s) output, atmosphere and aesthetics are more important than plot, and the performances of the actors involved are variable. Rollin doesn’t seem to be too concerned with creating believable characters, he uses his (beautiful) actresses as striking images moving across a background. His movies are often closer to paintings than your standard Hammer horror. That’s why ‘Fascination’ is so unlike most vampire movies you’ll ever see. Inspired and original. Don’t miss this one!
