Here, he encounters a lost love, Lysa Thatcher, which launches an extended flashback to his time six years earlier at the Whitestone Institute.
While Taboo VII may have frustrated fans looking for the transgressive themes of the original 1980 film, it remains a curious relic of the "Golden Age" of adult film. Its attempt to blend high-art sensibilities—poetry, sculpting, and classical music—with hardcore content makes it one of the more unique, if sometimes "boring" or "bizarre," entries in the long-running series. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
The story follows poet and author (Randy West). After running into his old flame Lisa Thatcher at a book signing, the film shifts into a long flashback of his time at the Whitestone Institute . Whitestone is depicted as an open, artistic community where residents are encouraged to explore their "wild" and "innocent" sides through romance and creativity. Cast & Crew Highlights Ben Brookfield Randy West Emily Lysa Thatcher Lenny Herschel Savage Mrs. Wiggins Kitty Shayne Director Kirdy Stevens Viewer Reception Taboo VII: The Wild and the Innocent (1989) - Letterboxd taboo vii the wild and the innocent 1989 ful best
(1989) stands as one of the most unique, experimental, and debated entries in adult cinematic history. Released during the twilight of the "Golden Age of Porn," this film marked a sharp departure from the darker, family-centric themes established in the early chapters of the famous Taboo franchise. Directed by series originator Kirdy Stevens alongside Peter Perry Jr. , the movie shifted the franchise toward an arthouse, romance-driven narrative focused on artistic passion and human sensuality. A Departure from Franchise Norms
Kirdy Stevens returned to direct Taboo VII: The Wild and the Innocent . Produced by Metro and with a runtime of 91 minutes, this entry is famous for defying the series’ core identity: it is not about incest. Here, he encounters a lost love, Lysa Thatcher,
: Includes industry veterans like Herschel Savage, Jamie Gillis, Mai Lin, and Kitty Shayne. Production and Legacy
It is praised for its high production values (compared to its peers) and its ambitious, if chaotic, attempt to merge romantic art with adult content. It is recognized as a standout for its unique, almost "bizarre" artistic choices, say Letterboxd. AI responses may include mistakes
The film utilizes a unique flashback structure. It begins in the present day as best-selling poet and author Ben Brookfield (played with charismatic, campy energy by adult icon Randy West) bumps into his lost love, Lisa Thatcher, at a bookstore signing.
Critics often note that the film was "shot on film" like the originals, maintaining a certain cinematic quality that set it apart from the burgeoning video market of the late 80s. It is remembered for its dreamlike atmosphere—featuring violin music, outdoor dining, and high-contrast cinematography—making it a "marvel of porn cinematography" for its time. Ultimately,