Is Whatever Turns You On Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1987)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Whatever Turns You On, a standout production of 1987, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Modern Cinema landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into It’s all here! Everything and anything you ever wanted to see happens in Whatever Turns You On. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Modern Cinema are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "It’s all here! Everything and anything you ever wanted to see happens in Whatever Turns You On. Herschel Savage and Frank James hang out at a topless bar and recount one torrid tale after another. Frank recalls a wild encounter with a sexy surf freak Nina Hartley that’s one wild ride. Kowabunga baby! Then, Herschel tells about the time he picked up a rich tart Penny Morgan who could only make love on the hood of a Bentley (no doubt he got her motor purring!) Plus, you’ll get to see a threeway fantasy, a hot girl-girl scene, and even Little Oral Annie shows up as a surprise guest star! Who could ask for anything more!"

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The ensemble, led by Blondi, delivers a professional and engaging performance that satisfies the requirements of the Modern Cinema genre. While it may not reinvent the wheel, the commitment to the material is evident in every frame.

The direction by James Bryan is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 65 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Whatever Turns You On truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Modern Cinema, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Whatever Turns You On explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1987 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and James Bryan respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Whatever Turns You On serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Blondi or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Whatever Turns You On is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.