The Rainbow (1989)

Early on in his career, British auteur Ken Russell earned an Academy Award nomination for what is considered his signature film — Women in Love (1969). Despite making other memorable pics, from the rock opera Tommy (1975) to the horror flick The Lair of the White Worm (1988), Ken could never attain the accolades he once gained with his ’69 hit. But it’s not for lack of trying since he adapted the novel “The Rainbow” (1915), D.H. Lawrence’s prequel to “Women in Love” (1920). With Russell’s skinematic version, he recast some of his original actors in The Rainbow (1989). Now older, Glenda Jackson (who won an Oscar for portraying Gudrun Brangwen in Women in Love) plays the mother Mrs. Brangwen, while Glenda McKay takes on the role of Gudrun. Of course, the star of the story is Ursula Brangwen (Sammi Davis). She’s a young Victorian who finds work as a teacher near the end of the Industrial Revolution. Yet her biggest lessons occur outside of the schoolroom thanks to her lover Anton Skrebensky (Paul McGann) and her mentor Winifred Inger (Amanda Donohoe). In other words, the nude ingénue bares her breasts, bush and butt while playing around with her equally undressed paramour. Together, the naked babes frolic outdoors and lick each other inside by the fire. Each of their three Bs are smoking hot! The romantic drama also includes Christopher Gable, David Hemmings, Jim Carter, Judith Paris, and Sammi’s smacked bottom. Suffice it to say, this English Rose will make you rise!