The late Paul G. Vatelli (who died of an AIDS-related illness somewhere in the mid-’80s) may not have been an overly talented filmmaker in the adult field but he had at least one enviable gift that set him apart from much of the competition. He could really create a sensuous mood through a combination of lighting and cinematography (he started out a DoP and fulfilled that function on his own directorial efforts), editing and music, giving birth to some of the more successful “couples films” of the period. He always made female performers look their best by putting them in frilly Frederick’s of Hollywood type lingerie with tastefully subtle hair and make up to match. Along with BODIES IN HEAT and STIFF COMPETITION, I LIKE TO WATCH makes for a triumvirate of his very best work.

Tags: like, watch, 1982