Chinese Erotica at the Movies: Sex and Zen
The original Sex and Zen movie is probably the most successful Chinese erotic movie ever made. The plot outline was loosely
based on the 17th century satire called "The Carnal Prayer
Mat" by Li Yu, a comic genius. As in most movie adaptations of well-known books,
movie version lacks much of the humor and superb storytelling present in the book. In fact, if you only watch the movie,
you might even wonder what the connection between the sex and the zen in the title is really about. Nevertheless,
the movie is quite entertaining in its own right.
| |
Title |
Mini Review |
 |
Sex and Zen
Starring Amy Yip
Directed by Lawrence Ng
Originally released in 1993
|
The original classic about a lecherous scholar who decides to replaces
his own inadequate manhood with that of a horse (actually a dog's in the book version). The assembled female cast,
led by Amy Yip, are delicious eye candy. The well-chosen English title and unique story line made the movie a popular
hit in the American art houses. |
 |
Sex and Zen II
Starring Loletta Lee, Hsu Chi
Directed by Lawrence Ng
Originally released in 1996
|
First of two sequels which bears no relationship to the original movie plotwise.
In this story, a powerful man lusts after his daughter-in-law, who is married to his retarded son. When the son
dies in an accident, he marries his daughter-in-law but then strange things start to happen. Could
she really be the she-devil that will bring disaster to his household? With Hsu Chi playing the beautiful
daughter-in-law, who is blame him for not caring? |
 |
Sex and Zen III
Starring Chung Chen, Elvis Tsuii
Originally released in 1999
|
|
 |
Yu Pui Tsuen
Directed by Ho Fan
Released in 1986
|
This is an earlier, less well-known interpretation of the "The Carnal Payer
Mat". Note that this release does not include English translation. |
 |
Yu Pui Tsuen III
Starring Elvis Tsui, Emily Kwan
Released in 2000
|
Note that this release does not include English translation. |
See also
|
