Debate on her sexuality persists up to this day but it's pretty much well known that Sappho was attracted to women. But there are many things which point out to more, including the fact that she apparently had a daughter. People who watch the movie think it's totally ridiculous because of this point alone and claim it's trying to hide her true sexuality. It's a sad point which I believe is one of the reasons why this movie is completely neglected today. The movie does address her sexuality, but in a very subtle way, with Sappho's deep friendship with Actis.
But the movie is actually based on the myth of Phaon and Sappho, which is a thing. Most people don't know this myth. Many say that the story of Sappho falling for Phaon was created to erase her sexuality but even so that myth is quite famous. Painters have even made several paintings on the subject (see above; artist: Jacques Louis David). Director Pietro Francisci based his movie on this myth and not the 'Academic' real Sappho. There's a distinction. I hope the movie with be eventually released in HD, uncut, etc. And I hope people won't dismiss it just because of this important distinction. Anyway, I like the movie because it's so entertaining. That should be the only valid reason, really.
Above: Phaon (Kerwin Mathews) and Sappho (Tina Louise). Below: Sappho with her close friend Actis (Susy Andersen).
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