This one was done 44 years ago in 1981. At the time the big shift of porn was to the west coast but lasse braun, the director was still shooting in New York and using the area for his films. This entire production was shot on several new York, Connecticut and Lon island locales and is a excellent story line and great cast. here is our original review from back in 1998-1999. Be sure to read the add side note at the end.

American Desire – Caballero Video – Director – Lasse Braun – Cast – Veronica Hart, Lysa Thatcher, Mai Linn, Mistress Candice, Robert Bolla, George Payne, Jack Teague, Roy Stuart, Dave Ruby.

As more films began shooting out on the west coast there were still some New York productions like this one being done. It was shot entirely on location in New York City, Long Island and Connecticut and some of the exterior shots really bring back memories of the area then. The movie marquees, midtown Manhattan, the twin towers, expressways, etc. How time does fly.

The story revolves around Bob and Sheila Welles (Robert Bolla and Veronica Hart) who were the perfect duo for this film. They are a married couple who love each other but are stuck in a rut as their sex life is dull and creating problems. So he comes up with the idea that maybe they should embark on a search for some new “fun” partners. Sheila is a very sexually frustrated and somewhat of a prude and wants no part of it. Without her knowledge, Bob decides to call on Mistress Candice and gets more than he bargained for in a domination scene that is played for laughs. Meanwhile, Sheila goes to see her father to get his advice on what to do. That’s when she finds out her dad is very occupied and busy with his young and sexy wife (Mai Linn).

During the visit Sheila meets a good looking young scholar (George Payne) who has a major interest in buying her father’s house and property. Mai Lin, however, gets her hands on this hunk first before Shiela then comes the unthinkable. Her father, aware of the interest the young guy has in Sheila wants to know if his uptight daughter would like to join in with his wife and the young guy. This shocking revelation now brings about some new twists and turns as Sheila begins to shed her coldness and sexual frustration and becomes one very erotic and sexual being.

The various encounters and people who enter her life bring changes she never thought could happen. Bob also has his new awakening when he picks up a hitchhiker (Lysa Thatcher) an encounter that brings about a major change. By now Sheila has really turned the sexual corner discovering not only pleasures she’d never imagined, but her own sexuality as well. By the time we get to the film’s closing Bob and Sheila have now invited Lysa into their new open marriage enjoying all the new sexual treats they have discovered.

Being shot on location the cinematography is extremely well done. It captures the feel of the couple, the erotic nature of the story and brings you into their complicated life and all that takes place. The sex scenes are magnified with visuals and angles giving off plenty of sizzle and steam. The writing was well done allowing for the characters to develop expressive portrayals. The acting by the entire cast was above par giving everything a more believable air. For Ms. Hart this was probably one of her very best roles in a very successful career that gained her worthy entrance into both the AVN and XRCO Halls of Fame. The music that is part of the film is perfectly done adding a nice balance. The direction by Lasse Braun is meticulous, fluid and done with a mainstream feel to it. “American Desire” is a true classic from the golden age. It is now available on DVD and I very much suggest getting hold of this film.

Side note: The director of this film, who also directed a number of other great productions from the golden age, Lasse Braun passed away in 2015. He was the father of today’s multi awarded writer, producer, director and a 4 time AVN Director of the Year recipient, Axel Braun. Mr. Braun is also a member of the AVN, XRCO and NightMoves Hall of Fame.

Art Koch, National Features & DVD Editor, NightMoves Magazine and AAN