Lucrezia Giovane

I'm a huge admirer of Luciano Ercoli. His Gialli/Thrillers are up there with the best works in the genre (Argento, Bava or Martino). So I had to watch this early 70s erotic period drama about the infamous Borgia family. Production values are ok, the story telling is at a good pace, acting is above average, there are beautiful women (and nudity). Ercoli is a capable director and keeps the film interesting and entertaining throughout. But don't expect historical accuracy. It's exploitative but not sleazy. Outstanding is the music by Franco Micalizzi (who most of us know from his work for Umberti Lenzis Polizieschi, like Napoli Violenta). This time he delivers a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that reminds of Ennio Morricone. And then there's the beautiful Simonetta Stefanelli in the title role. She really shines. Overall it's a decent film that does not disappoint. Fans of Italian period dramas and fans of Luciano Ercoli definitely should watch it.