When directionless Katie (Cara Burgess) inherits the family business from her deceased uncle, she thinks it’s the perfect opportunity to show that she can make something of herself. Understandably, she is mortified to learn the family business is a shady massage parlor. She eventually gets over it though, and with the help of her two gal pals (Judy Brown and Rosalind Miles), she turns the business legitimate. Once the Mob learns Katie and her crew are turning a profit, they send some hoodlums to collect protection money from the girls. Problems arise when one of the mobsters falls in love with Katie.
I’m a sucker for movies where the main character inherits a sexy business. As far as the subgenre goes, The Manhandlers isn’t a particularly stellar example, but it’s innocuous fun for fans of lighthearted drive-in exploitation fare. Did I wish there were a few more nudity-laden set pieces? Sure. However, the acting is surprisingly solid, the pacing is relatively swift, and the storyline is engaging for the most part.
Director Lee (Angel Unchained) Madden does a competent job when it comes to the various sex, shower, massage, and body painting sequences. While the rest of the picture falls short of being a classic, it remains a sturdy vehicle for its leading ladies. All three get at least one major sex and/or nude scene, which at the very least, makes it worth the price of admission. Burgess is likeable in the lead, and it’s a shame she only made a handful of films because she equips herself quite nicely. Likewise, Miles proves to be a winning comedienne, and her performance is proof she could’ve had a bigger career outside of exploitation films. Fans of The Big Doll House’s Judy Brown will enjoy having another opportunity to see her in the buff too.
AKA: Soft Touch.
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