Dave Michaels' Rating:

As a reviewer, one tries not to favor a particular type of movie over others, but I have to admit that in terms of adult hardcore I am partial to the less-is-more quality features that seem to be categorized as geared towards couples.

Of course, this category is generally difficult to pull off, as the material has to appeal to female viewers while still maintaining enough heat to keep the attention of the men in the audience. Often filmmakers will favor the "soft" aspects to the point that much of the fantasy element that men tend to favor is foresaken. Conversely, a lot of couples videos are proverbial wolves in sheep clothing, with a well thought out title and nice boxcover artwork but a standard XXX storyline.

As of late, an emphasis on making quality products that one can take home and view with a member of the gentler sex, has started to make a comeback not really seen since adults heyday in the mid 1970's.

"Heart & Soul" is a series of fantasy vignettes done in a very Playboy-like, visually-oriented style. Each segment is introduced in voiceover by Missy, who is also the subject of each of the episodes.

The first of which features lithe Missy being pursued through metaphorically dark alleys by shadowy animal men. Overcome, Missy is at first consumed by her predators before doing a little consumption of her own.

The following segments seem to alter between light and dark fantasies, one of the most intense being another ravaging scenario. This time purity-personified-in-white Missy is on a altar surrounded by a pack of fanged succubi vampires, including a leather-clad Stephanie Swift who looks as if she slithered from an extra sensual Vampirella comic book.

The fantasy situations, well crafted art direction, and the female central character puts "Heart & Soul" into the category of quality couples video and is clearly aimed at the audiences who made the similarly themed "Zazel" so popular last year.

In addition to their acting duties, Missy and Mickey also serve as director for the project as well as other behind the camera responsibilities. All the more impressive is the fact that this is the first project that the duo has served in such a creative capacity. Additional kudos to Alex Sanders who, in addition to a supporting role in the movie, also serves as the projects editor.

Although not typical material for the raincoat crowd, "Heart & Soul" will be a refreshing surprise for couples looking for something more visceral than softcore features but more sensual than your standard adult feature.

Posted By Dave Michaels, www.excaliburfilms.com | 10/12/06 1:58 PM