It’s been a few years since I last saw this movie, and recently I decided to give it a second viewing. You know, to see if this 1974 nunsploitation film stood to the test of time. Unlike most movies of this nature, School of the Holy Beast (Seiju Gakuen) actually does stand up to the test of time. At least when it comes to entertainment purposes.
School of Holy Beast is a movie about a girl, Maya, who ends up in a convent. Now, in this convent they believe you should be punished for various different things, and it sure is entertaining to see the different sorts of things that happen. I suppose you could say this movie is tame compared to other exploitation films, perhaps it is the subject matter that makes it intriguing. There’s quite a bit of lashings in this film, but also scenes where Maya is tied up with thorns, among other things. Now, unlike certain other films “School of the Holy Beast” actually does contain a plot. Aside from all the nefarious torturing that instigates a laugh riot, there’s also the whole underlying plot for Maya to find out more about her parents, and possibly a plot for some sort of revenge.
But I mean, do people really watch exploitation films for the plot? Not really, but it does add in a nice twist to keep you watching in between the beautifully crafted punishment scenes. Given the style of this movie, I dare say that it can hold its own. If you’re into this style of film, you will probably enjoy it as I have. Often times movies like these bore me after watching it once or twice, and I can’t really feel any connection with the film. Though this film still continues to entertain me.
So do you like nuns? Do you like torture? Do you think revenge is dish best served with the Lord your savior? Want more than just a slap on the wrist with a ruler? Then this one is for you!
