Olga's Girls [Special Edition] [DVD] [1964]

With the possible exception of Michael and Roberta Findlay's work, "roughies" from the 1960s sexploitation era don't get a lot stranger or more lasciviously cruel than Joseph P. Mawra's "Olga" movies, and Synapse Films' DVD release of the second picture in the series, Olga's Girls, treats this celluloid freak show with far more respect than one might expect. Olga's Girls has been transferred to disc in its original full-frame aspect ratio of 1.33:1. The image has been slightly window-boxed, and the image is quite strong, offering a rich palate of gray tones and little grain; this transfer looks better than some major-studio releases of classic films from this era, while the audio track is equally clean, mastered in Dolby Digital Mono and boasting both clarity and punch. No subtitles or multiple language options have been included. As a bonus, this edition includes a commentary track featuring film journalist Andre Salas and Olga herself, actress Audrey Campbell. While Campbell's memory of the film's short schedule is a bit faulty, she's droll and gracious throughout, and seems mostly bemused by the film's sexual deviance. Those looking for more hard facts and editorial perspective will get it in the essay by Salas included in the disc's booklet. If you're at all interested in the nooks and crannies of 1960s outsider cinema, this release of Olga's Girls deserves a place on your shopping list.