She (2001)

H. Rider Haggard’s most famous pulp novel has been adapted for the screen nearly a dozen times but never so colorfully as in Timothy Bond’s vivid version of She (2001). The familiar tale follows a gallant British professor who, along with his eager adopted son, undertakes a quest to locate Ayesha, the Caucasian queen of an elusive African tribe. Haggard’s book was considered bold in its time for its depiction of ripe sexuality, and Bond’s film plays up the ribald themes by casting the irresistible Ophélie Winter in the role of the lascivious tribeswoman. Winter’s quick to warm up to her skin scenes, as is co-star Marie Bäumer in her role as a purring sex kitten.