The Ribald Tales of Canterbury " (1985) is often cited by film historians as one of the last major "big budget" adult features shot on 35mm film before the industry almost entirely transitioned to cheaper home video.
Directed by Bud Lee and starring his wife, Hyapatia Lee, the film is a comedic, X-rated reimagining of Geoffrey Chaucer's medieval classic. While it takes massive creative liberties, it stays true to the "frame story" format: a group of travelers en route to Canterbury Cathedral engage in a contest to see who can tell the most scandalous erotic story to pass the time. Key Production Facts
Unusually High Production Value: Unlike many adult films of its time, this production featured elaborate period costumes, detailed sets, and actual outdoor photography using horses.
The "Camelot" Connection: Much of the film’s visual flair came from the fact that the production reportedly rented costumes from Universal Studios that were originally used in the film Camelot. The Ribald Tales Of Canterbury -1985- -Classic-
Location Trickery: Although trailers at the time claimed the film was shot on location in Scotland, it was actually filmed in Northern California (Petaluma and San Francisco).
Restoration: The boutique label Vinegar Syndrome released a 2K restoration of the film from the original 35mm negative, preserving its "cinematic" look for modern collectors. Notable Cast and Tales
The film features several "hall of fame" names from the 1980s adult industry, including Peter North (in an early role), Mike Horner, and Colleen Brennan. The Ribald Tales of Canterbury (1985) - IMDb The Ribald Tales of Canterbury " (1985) is
You're referring to a classic book!
"The Ribald Tales of Canterbury" is a 1985 publication that presents a collection of bawdy and humorous stories inspired by Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. The book is an adaptation or reinterpretation of Chaucer's classic work, aiming to make the tales more accessible and entertaining for a modern audience.
The original "Canterbury Tales" by Chaucer is a masterpiece of Middle English literature, written in the late 14th century. It consists of a collection of stories told by pilgrims traveling from London to Canterbury Cathedral. Chaucer's tales are known for their rich language, vivid characters, and diverse themes, which include love, morality, and social commentary. Viewing Recommendations
The 1985 book, "The Ribald Tales of Canterbury," likely presents a more lighthearted and risqué take on Chaucer's original work, focusing on the humorous and erotic aspects of the tales. The book's use of "ribald" in its title suggests that it may contain explicit or off-color content, making it a more adult-oriented adaptation of Chaucer's classic.
If you're interested in reading "The Ribald Tales of Canterbury," you may be able to find a copy in a used bookstore or online marketplaces. Keep in mind that the book's content and tone may differ significantly from Chaucer's original work, offering a more modern and playful interpretation of the classic tales.
Grade: B- (for sheer audacity) / F (as a Chaucer adaptation)
The Ribald Tales of Canterbury (1985) is not a good movie. But it is a genuine artifact—a dirty, hand-drawn, hilarious artifact. For fans of adult animation’s weird history, it is essential viewing. For everyone else: you have been warned. And the Wife of Bath salutes you.