Drop Out Wife (1972) - A Dive into the Swinging Scene

 

Drop Out Wife (1972) - A Dive into the Swinging Scene

Drop Out Wife, directed by Stephen C. Apostolof and written by the infamous Ed Wood, is a 1972 drama that explores the themes of marital dissatisfaction and sexual exploration. The film follows the journey of a young housewife who decides to leave her husband and children to delve into the swinging scene, only to find that it doesn't meet her expectations.

Plot Summary: The movie begins with the protagonist, a seemingly typical suburban housewife, feeling trapped in her mundane life. Dissatisfied with her marriage and yearning for excitement, she makes the bold decision to leave her family behind and explore the world of swinging. This decision sets her on a path of self-discovery and disillusionment as she navigates the complexities of the swinging lifestyle.

Click below to watch trailer

As she immerses herself in this new world, she encounters various characters who introduce her to the highs and lows of the scene. From wild parties to intimate encounters, she experiences a range of emotions and situations that challenge her initial perceptions. However, as the novelty wears off, she begins to realize that the swinging lifestyle is not the escape she had hoped for.

Themes and Execution: Drop Out Wife delves into the themes of freedom, identity, and the consequences of stepping outside societal norms. The film attempts to portray the protagonist's journey with a mix of drama and softcore elements, reflecting the era's fascination with sexual liberation and countercultural movements.

The movie's low-budget production is evident in its rough, unpolished aesthetic, which adds a certain rawness to the narrative. However, this also results in inconsistent acting and a plot that sometimes feels disjointed. Despite these shortcomings, the film manages to capture the essence of the protagonist's internal struggle and the societal pressures she faces.

Acting and Direction: Angela Carnon, who plays the lead role, delivers a performance that is both compelling and flawed. Her portrayal of a woman caught between her desires and societal expectations is nuanced, though at times overshadowed by the film's low production values. The supporting cast, while not particularly memorable, adds to the overall atmosphere of the movie.

Stephen C. Apostolof's direction, combined with Ed Wood's screenplay, creates a film that is both intriguing and perplexing. The psychedelic filming style of the swingers' party scenes adds a unique visual element, though it may not appeal to all viewers. The film's attempt to balance drama with softcore elements results in a narrative that is both provocative and uneven.

Overall Impression: Drop Out Wife is a film that may interest those who appreciate 1970s exploitation cinema. Its portrayal of the swinging lifestyle is raw and unrefined, offering a glimpse into the era's fascination with sexual liberation. While the film's execution may not stand the test of time for most viewers, it holds a certain charm for enthusiasts of niche, vintage cinema.

In conclusion, Drop Out Wife is a product of its time, reflecting the era's cultural and social dynamics. It is a film that explores the complexities of marital dissatisfaction and the search for identity, albeit through a lens that may seem dated to modern audiences. For those interested in the history of exploitation cinema, Drop Out Wife offers a unique, if flawed, perspective on the swinging scene of the 1970s.