W.R.: Mysteries of the Organism (1971) review

Makavejev's examination of sexual politics is based on the theories of late psychologist and Freudian disciple Wilhelm Reich, who wrote influential - if controversial - texts on the problems with sexual functioning and, in one book, about how cancer can develop out of repression. The interviews with Reich's followers, including the famed Dr. Alexander Lowen, as well as footage of 'body therapy' start it off on the right track, but then it loses some of its diversity when Makavejev switches to a faux-movie about sex in Yugoslavia, where his points get muddled and it becomes a mish-mash of ranting and offbeat interpretations. I could have stood more conversations with other psychologists and therapists - and maybe even a more coherent summary of his 'findings' and the link between political power and sexual power - but to complain too much wouldn't be fair to what is a faulty but adventurous (and obscure) pastiche.