Café Flesh returns to London cinemas

The 1982 film has a renewed life with a restored print showing in London this month.

Café Flesh re-emerges in London after decades

Café Flesh, directed by Stephen Sayadian, is back with a restored print screening in London. Originally released in 1982, it faced stiff criticism from conservative financiers and audiences reluctant to embrace its unique blend of explicit content and dystopian themes. The film depicts a future where the majority of the population, the 'Sex Negatives,' cannot engage in intimacy. Those who can, known as 'Sex Positives,' perform for an audience that cannot participate. Despite its rocky start, the film gained appreciation on the midnight movie circuit and has influenced various artists, including Vera Drew, who credits it as a defining work in her career. Sayadian reflects on the unorthodox techniques used in shooting the film, including abrupt cuts from wide shots to explicit close-ups, aiming to portray the forced nature of the performances.

The return of Café Flesh highlights how changing social norms can reflect in the reception of art over time. Initially rejected for its explicit content and unconventional narrative, the film found a niche audience that appreciated its artistic boldness. Its themes resonate even more today in a climate that is more open to discussions about sexuality. Sayadian's comments on the conservative nature of the porn industry reveal a critical view of how marginalized expressions are treated in mainstream culture. The film serves as a peculiar commentary on both the era it depicts and modern sensibilities around sexuality and voyeurism.

Highlights

The restored print of Café Flesh invites a new generation to explore its complex themes.