Plot Summary:
Vanessa (1977) is a West German erotic adventure set in Hong Kong. Comparisons to Emmanuelle were to be expected, as it features a young woman in a tropical location having sexual adventures, and even uses bamboo chairs. The similarity ends there, however. Vanessa (Olivia Pascal in her first screen role) lives in a European convent where she has been since the death of her parents, but is notified that her last remaining relative, an uncle, has died and left her a fortune to manage. Imagine the surprise for this sweet, shy innocent when she discovers that she now owns dozens of brothels in Hong Kong. She owns a plantation as well, that is managed by the illegitimate son of her uncle, who is contesting the will. She is staying with a family that includes the hedonist Eva Garden and her precocious daughter Uschi Zech, who becomes fast friends with Vanessa. The dramatic conflict consists over the fate of her inheritance and her maidenhead.

In addition to a great deal of nudity and simulated sex, the film includes some torture, bondage, black magic, and is a decent travelogue of Hong Kong. It was originally to be shot in Thailand, and had no script -- merely a cast, crew and a treatment. Director Hubert Frank was hired for his rumored ability to improvise, and it was put to the test here. They arrived in Thailand, only to be told by the producer that he has just had some difficulties filming there, and they were headed for Hong Kong. Once in Hong Kong, they were told it would be impossible to find filming locations there, but everyone was sick of travel, and Hong Kong it was.

Special Features:
Chapter Menu
High Life in Hong Kong: Interviews with Director Hubert Frank and Director of Photography Franz X. Lederle 28 minutes
Vanessa Revealed: Intimate Behind-the scenes featurette 16 minutes
Theatrical Trailor

Technical Details:
English Dolby 2.0 mono
1.78:1/16:9 Widescreen
All Regions NTSC

MPAA Rating:
Unrated

The "Skin Factor":
Eva Garden, Uschi Zech, Olivia Pascal, and several unknowns show everything.