We go back almost 40 years for this very clever, well done porn version of one of the classic poets and writers from back in the 1300’s, Geoffrey Chaucer and his celebrated Canterbury Tales. There are some great names from the past in this film that has become a true classic in adult film history. Enjoy our original review that was done back in 1995 for NightMoves magazine

The Ribald Tales of Canterbury – Cabellero Films – Director – Bud Lee – Cast – Hyapatia Lee, Colleen Brennan, Debra Lynn, Cheri Janvier, Beverly Bliss, Petite Luv, Mike Horner, Peter North, Bud Lee, Page Turner, Stevie Taylor, Marc Wallice, Josephine Carrington, Buffy Davis, F.M. Bradley, Jon Martin, Jesse Eastern, Tom Martino

This piece of classic porn was the brainchild of porn star Hyapatia Lee. She took a true classic piece of writing by English poet, writer and philosopher Geoffrey Chaucer from 1384 and turned into a porn film.

The basic premise centers around a group of travelers on a pilgrimage to Canterbury. Along the way they would tell each other stories to keep themselves amused on their journey. Of course in this retelling of the classic stories and actions they were far more than Chaucer may have ever imagined. Only six or so stories are acted out, way below the number in Chaucer’s original writing. They are very well done keeping them interesting and entertaining. Back in the pre Victorian days much of the writing was very bawdy and earthy, so taking something like this and giving it the porn twist was a natural in the right hands.

As for the stories and scenes, the first is the ‘Miller’s Tale.’ where a miserly miller cheats two students (Jon Martin and Peter North) until the miller’s wife (Stevie Taylor) and daughter (Page Turner) repay the boys with a hot and heavy daisy chain. Then there is Hyapatia Lee who plays a Gypsy who gets into a scorcher of a girl-girl scene with the Wife of Bath (Colleen Brennan), and then later she inflames the crystal balls on two gypsy studs! In addition Ms. Lee also acts as your hostess for the film. There are more Ribald Tales of Canterbury that will have you both mesmerized and turned on as they go about satisfying the true urges of the stories they tell and relate.

There were several things that made this a classic. First, the large cast had actors and actresses who were more than just sex performers. They could really act and deliver lines convincingly. Second, the costuming of the period was just about perfect and the music fit perfectly. The cinematography was excellent and totally captured the essence and feel of what Chaucer might have done in an adult vein. Overall, from the writing, acting and sexual standpoint, Lee directed this ensemble in a way that gave the viewer realism, fun and telling good stories in a very novel way. As for the sex scenes that take place in this film, they were hot, passion filled, had great chemistry and offered plenty of great visuals.

If you want a classic adult film that is decidedly different, fun and very sexual, then “The Ribald Tales of Canterbury” is an excellent choice to make for total entertainment and enjoyment. It is available on DVD with some really good extras added. This is one I never get tired of watching again and it is one classic from the golden age that is well worth having.

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