A mix of color scenes and black and white scenes, JOHAN was originally released in 1976, and quickly condemned by the powers that be as obscene. The narrator laments the fact that Johan, the star of his yet-to-be filmed movie, has been arrested, and is currently in jail awaiting trial. We follow the director around Paris, as he cruises for a replacement star, as well as for lovers. Written and directed by Phillippe Vallois, we follow along as he "auditions" potential stars in parks, apartments, alleys, bars, and restaurants. The whole time, Vallois is addressing the absent Johan, and it appears that he is making this documentary for the absent star/lover. The dialogue and the action get EXTREMELY explicit at times, and definitely should only be viewed by the over 18 crowd, and the those who are NOT easily offended. There is a beautiful young woman "Christine" , who, according to the cast list, is the friend of the director. Surprisingly good film quality and editing,especially considering it was done in France over 30 years ago. Interesting combination of a behind- the- scenes documentary, combined with love/lust scenes, with very attractive actors drifting in and out of the plot. Don't look for a deep plot or any life lessons, just enjoy the film for what it provides. The "Bonus Feature" is a narrative by a present day Vallois (writer & director), where he describes the actual making of the film, and the events in his life which brought him to the making of this film. Every bit as interesting as the movie itself. This 1976 version does not seem at all related to the 1921 version or the 2005 version, both of which are also from Europe.
