The Golden Age of Porn (1969-1984) was an era where porn films were not only commercially popular but also regarded as legitimate cinema. Films had storylines, production value, and sometimes even mainstream recognition. This period produced some of the most iconic and influential adult films. Here are the 10 most important films from the Golden Age of Porn.
1. Deep Throat (1972) – The Film That Made Porn Mainstream
If there is one film that defines the Golden Age of Porn, it is Deep Throat. This film transformed porn from an underground phenomenon into a cultural talking point.
Linda Lovelace stars as a woman who discovers that her clitoris is located deep in her throat, leading to the now-legendary title of the film. While the premise may seem absurdly comedic, Deep Throat became a massive financial success and a cultural phenomenon.
The film became infamous due to censorship, lawsuits, and the controversial claims by Linda Lovelace that she was forced into participation against her will. Despite these controversies, Deep Throat remains the most famous adult film of all time.
2. The Devil in Miss Jones (1973) – Porn with Existential Depth
Director Gerard Damiano, who previously made Deep Throat, followed up that success with The Devil in Miss Jones, a unique blend of porn and arthouse cinema.
The film tells the story of Justine Jones, a lonely woman who commits suicide and finds herself in limbo. Since she has not lived a sinful life, she is given a chance to explore her sexual desires before being condemned to hell.
With a serious and melancholic tone, impressive cinematography, and acting far beyond the standard for adult films, this movie is often considered one of the best porn films ever made.
3. Behind the Green Door (1972) – Mystery and Psychedelic Erotica
This film, produced by the Mitchell brothers, introduced Marilyn Chambers, who would later become one of the biggest stars of the Golden Age.
The film follows a woman taken to an exclusive sex theater, where she participates in a hypnotic, orgasmic ritual. Behind the Green Door stood out for its experimental cinematography, slow build-up, and artistic editing.
The film became a massive hit and turned Marilyn Chambers into a legend, especially since she had previously been a model for a mainstream baby product brand, leading to significant publicity.
4. The Opening of Misty Beethoven (1976) – The Citizen Kane of Porn
Often regarded as the best porn film ever made, The Opening of Misty Beethoven is a particularly stylish and well-written film.
The film is a loose retelling of Pygmalion (and My Fair Lady), where a sexologist transforms a young woman into a refined escort. What sets this film apart from other porn films is its sharp script, high production value, and playful humor.
Director Radley Metzger was known for his stylish European aesthetic, and this work is still praised as a high point of the genre.
5. Debbie Does Dallas (1978) – A Cultural Sensation
This infamous classic is perhaps the most notorious cheerleader porn film ever.
The plot revolves around Debbie, a cheerleader raising money to travel to Dallas, leading to various erotic situations. While the film is less artistic than some others on this list, it became one of the most commercially successful porn films ever and had a significant impact on pop culture.
It spawned numerous sequels, parodies, and references in mainstream media.
6. Barbara Broadcast (1977) – Porn as High Art
Director Henry Paris (pseudonym of Radley Metzger) was a visual mastermind and delivered Barbara Broadcast, a stylish, chic porn film that almost feels like a surreal dream.
The film is largely set in an upscale restaurant, where the waitresses literally “serve” the customers. The cinematography, creative editing, and playful atmosphere made this film an artistic and entertaining addition to the genre.
7. The Story of Joanna (1975) – Porn with a Dark Side
This erotic drama is inspired by the classic novel Story of O and combines BDSM with artistic cinematography.
The film tells the story of a young woman who submits to a dominant man, leading to complex emotional and sexual dynamics. Director Gerard Damiano brought a level of depth and visual aesthetic rarely seen in adult films.
8. Sensations (1975) – An International Erotic Experience
This European film, featuring a mix of American and Dutch actors, was partially filmed in the Netherlands and has a playful, lightly artistic approach.
The film follows an American journalist who ends up in Europe and indulges in sensual experiences. Due to its exotic locations, charming soundtrack, and playful tone, Sensations stands out from the more hardcore American porn films.
9. Alice in Wonderland: An X-Rated Musical Fantasy (1976) – A Bizarre Porn Musical
What happens when you combine Alice in Wonderland with softcore musical and hardcore porn? You get this absurd cult classic.
With original songs, colorful costumes, and a surprisingly lighthearted atmosphere, this is one of the strangest yet most memorable adult films ever made.
10. Take Off (1978) – An Erotic Journey Through Time
Director Armand Weston created Take Off, an ambitious erotic film that jumps through history, showcasing different eras and sexual traditions.
The film is unique in its creative storytelling and artistic editing, making it feel more like a serious feature film than a standard porn movie.
The Golden Age of Porn Elevated Porn to Artistic Heights
This was a unique period where porn was seen as serious cinema, with large budgets, ambitious storylines, and a certain artistic value.
source: filmfun.nl
