When Passions Collide

This is an early (1997) Eros collectible that starts us off with all the elements of a tantalizing erotic drama: realistic-looking couples with relationship issues, a secluded but lavish vacation getaway, and good opening sex scenes. Plus, you’ve got the ever-luscious Lorissa McComas and fresh-faced Kristin Herold. Yep, at first glance, When Passions Collide would appear to have it all. But does it deliver the goods?

Kristin Herold plays free-spirited Lisa, who wants to push some boundaries in the bedroom but is frustrated by her bookish boyfriend Ryan, a nerdy sort who just doesn’t see the point of blindfolds and nipple clamps. Their traveling companions are Cyndi (Lisa Krispin) and Jack, who are much more at ease with themselves, even to the point of encouraging a bit of “soft-swapping,” namely, having sex in plain view of one another just for the fun of watching, and being watched. Soon the room is aglow with the light of a burning fire reflecting off plenty of skin in one very nice scene.

But just as viewers might be settling in for some interesting psychosexual dynamics, the plot takes a turn. Or, rather, the real storyline emerges and all those interesting relationships become mere backdrops for what happens next. All too suddenly the movie turns into your standard semi-erotic “thriller.” You know what I’m talking about: the uninvited guests, cut phone lines, and a briefcase full of cash. Oh yeah, and a gun. Sigh. And for a movie that held such promise.

Viewers at this point need to be forewarned that, despite all the flirting, the sex often doesn’t quite materialize as we hope. Granted, we do get to enjoy watching Lorissa get a good pounding-from-behind by her thuggish boyfriend while showering. But what about the hot seduction scene that goes nowhere? Sexy as hell, Lorissa’s character tempts uptight Ryan as he’s shaving. “I like it real smooth. Feel,” she says while taking his hand and placing it on her bush. Amazingly, the guy is unaffected. And what about the girl-girl hot-tub scene? I maintain that if Lorissa seduces another woman, it’s just plain wrong to abruptly end a good scene before it really gets going.

Writer Leland Zaitz (Hollywood Sex Fantasy, Girl for Girl) must have been a bit distracted (or restrained) when writing this one. Too bad.  When Passions Collide had all the makings of what could have been a very sexy, edgy piece of softcore entertainment.