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Paul Thomas might just be the best director working in porn today. I make such a bold statement because he’s a true honest-to-god filmmaker, not some wannabe auteur with a DV camera (not that I’m putting down DV wannabe auteurs, since I’m one of them... aren't we all?). Mr. Thomas shoots on film, folks. He’s one of the few privileged directors who have earned the right and the budget to actually photograph his works. He has an amazing eye, style to spare, and his films are loaded with honesty, character, and story. And best of all, this film in particular reminds me of authentic 70’s porn. It's really hard to fake it, but P.T. pulls it off with grace. Remember the 70's? Back when they actually gave a shit? That’s Paul Thomas, a talented craftsman who’s in a league almost entirely by himself.

The next time anyone tries to tell me that porn isn’t art, I hope I have a copy of To Die For handy. I know every porno isn't art, but neither are most mainstream movies today. In fact, most of it is crap. To Die For is clear proof that porn not only can be art, but it can be damn fine art, too. This movie hit me just right in all aspects. Producer Shylar Cobi is all over this film and it shows. Over the past few years Cobi’s has quickly become one of the best producers working in the adult medium and this movie is a testament to his dedication. Everything from the exceptional cinematography to the natural acting come together in a perfect execution that’s reminiscent of the 70’s but has all the edge of modern porn.

The star of the film is the beautiful and striking Monique Alexander. She’s got a real soft presence that drives me crazy. She’s got a truly unique sexy vibe about her and it translates well in this film. Also in the cast is Liz Harper, who proudly sports a somewhat natural bikini region, which is a rarity in this business. As photographer and director Hank Hoffman says, “That’s what woman are supposed to look like.” Liz brings a real natural quality to the production. There’s a blowjob scene she’s in that’s shot just like a classic porn of the 70’s. Good stuff.

The Behind The Scenes featurette is fantastic. Although Hank Hoffman does the camera work and conducts the interviews (expertly, I might add), producer Shylar Cobi comes off as the sly star of the entire DVD. He’s like a perverted Rod Serling, always lurking around every corner, our guide on a personal behind-the-scenes tour of a porn shoot. He’s expressed interest in directing and if he ever decides to take dedicate one hundred percent of his attention to that, he’ll no doubt become the Alfred Hitchcock of porno. Hoffman’s gentle touch with the actress interviews is really sweet and makes the whole effort seem undeniably intimate. Also watch for gaffer extraordinaire Ernesto in both the featurette and the feature film. He’s priceless and a true staple of the adult film crew.

There is a story here, but it never overpowers the sex. In many ways, the sex is the story, and it unfolds naturally. Nothing seems forced or campy. It’s also not overly serious or trying to be something that it’s not. Paul Thomas seems to have struck a complex tone here but has made it all look effortless. It also has anal, which is a must for me, and an up-the-back finish that had me on my feet and applauding.

Of course, the entire DVD package (menus, extras, sound and picture) meet with Vivid’s usual high standards. This is a product that’s worth every penny. If you like good adult movies, you will love this film. And if you’re not a big fan of porn in general but are looking for a classy movie to take home and share with the little lady, or to just share it with yourself, look no further. To Die For is about as good as it gets.

Click below to read other great Vivid/Collider interviews and DVD reviews...

Interviews: Paul Thomas 01/31/06 - Mercedez 01/31/06 Part 1 - Part 2

Shylar Cobi 01/31/06 - Lacie Heart 02/18/06 - Tom Byron 02/26/06

Hank Hoffman Shoots Savanna Samson - Hank On Pubic Hair

Reviews: Mythology - Out of Place - Karma

Pix: Monique Alexander - Mercedez - Briana Banks - Lexie Marie

Porn Stories with Ernie: Drugs and Alcohol - Just Light The Dick, Kid