Another film based upon a book by James M Cain and, naturally, another controversy. Cain's work always tended to focus upon emotions running high and passion, particularly, sexual passion, being exploited for another's gain. Postman Always Rings Twice and Double Indemnity also exploit these human frailties (qualities?) but they never encounter quite the derision heaped upon this fine film. Strangely, enough, a most faithful interpretation of the book, just lacking the sticky claustrophobia of the original's interiors. Obviously this is disliked because of the way the 'incest' scenes are played but it is, as they say, only a film and this is not meant as a an advertisement but as an exploration. Worse things than this happen as we well know and to fall over ourselves to throw the first stone at a movie seems crazy. Especially if it has one of Stacy Keach's best performances, a great and most convincing one from Pia Zadora (who deserved her Golden Globe newcomer award) and at least an interesting late appearance from Orson Welles. Super cinematography, competent direction, fine score from Morricone and great steamy story. What's not to like?

Is it Citizen Kane? No, but it does also feature a wonderful performance from Orson Welles. That and a beautiful song sung by star Pia Zadora over the end credits. Admittedly the film drags a bit, and features a somewhat implausible storyline. It's definitely not for all audiences because of those elements.Nevertheless, Matt Cimber created a thoroughly interesting and entertaining film in 'Butterfly'. It's certainly worth at least one viewing, if anything simply for the credits song "It's Wrong For Me To Love You" and Welles' delightfully over-the-top turn as Judge Rauch. Ennio Morricone's haunting musical score also complements the intrigue of the film's events quite nicely.

Is this film ever going to get a DVD release? Even a cheap, quick release? A film this bad deserves to see the light of day, so aspiring film students can watch this and learn what not to do. Like, say, the creepy "Oh, I'll wash my daughter's back while she's taking a bath" scene. I haven't been able to find this movie at any used VHS store; it's time to put this legendarily bad film to DVD. If for no other reason then to see Welles in the sunset of his career and Ed McMahon actually acting, instead of being Johnny's sidekick or giving people massive checks for Publisher's Clearinghouse. And Pia Zadora, Thespian. Come on Criterion Collection, your public duty to unearth this wretched gem for a whole new generation to explore awaits you!

My comment is not so much about the movie as about those who call the "bathtub scene" sexy. This was supposedly an incestuous scene and it is somehow sexy?As it turns out there was no incest, but the characters thought there was.And the man was tried for it.The movie may have stunk -- though Cannes loved it, Rex Reed loved it and Pia Zadora was never so good (yes, well) -- but at least a predator was portrayed having to answer for his crimes. Sort of.One wnoders what Orson Wells and Stacy Keach were thinking. They both had careers. But then Mickey Rooney was in some hortrible movies, as well.