Mainstream erotica
Romance (1999) - Catherine Breillat [Amazon.com]
Definition
Mainstream erotica is all erotica that is not deemed pornograhic. Sometimes dubbed non-pornographic. See simulated versus unsimulatedMainstream erotic movies
For the purpose of this site, we propose that mainstream erotic movies are those movies that were either passed by the BBFC or that they are available through Amazon.com. Or films that opened in first-run theatres when they were released. [Nov 2005]Mainstream erotic films
This page concerns eroticism, nudity and sex as it is represented in mainstream film. Mainstream films are defined by the type of theatres they played at: first-run theatres and arthouse theatres.
(1905 - c.1980)
In the pre-VCR era people had to physically visit a film theatre to watch an erotic film.
First-run theatres and arthouse theatres
For the purpose of this site, mainstream erotic films are feature films that played in two types of theatres:
- Mainstream, or first-run theatres
- Arthouse theatre or repertory theatres
Where was mainstream eroticism to be found? In places where other mainstream films were to be found. In mainstream theatres, also known as "First run" theatres. Theatres where big budget, blockbuster-type movies were played from the major film companies and distributors, during the initial release period of each film.
Secondly, in arthouse theatres, intended for audiences who liked imports and independent cinema. Also known as Repertoire; they present more alternative and art films as well as second run and classic and cult films.
(1980 - today)
In the post-VCR era, beginning in in the mid eighties, it has been possible to watch erotic films in the privacy of one's living room. If we would like to assess the definition of mainstream erotic films in a post-VCR era, we would have to examine mail order catalogs, rental shops, internet sites. Amazon, for example, carries erotic films, but does not offer pornographic films.
Grindhouse theatres
Our definition excludes movies that played "grindhouse" theatres. This type of theatre was often located in the red-light district of a city, for example 42nd street New York in the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. As a respectable citizen, you would not have liked meeting your neighbour in your local sleazy grindhouse theatre.
Place is always a defining part of the definition of erotica and pornography. [May 2005]