Laura Gemser
From The Art and Popular Culture Encyclopedia
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After modelling in various magazines in the Netherlands, Gemser began to take part in some soft erotic films. She became internationally recognised after starring in a number of Black Emanuelle films in the 1970s. These films were especially popular as late night fare on the Cinemax cable channel in the USA. Although she appeared in numerous hardcore titles, she always had simulated sex. The "notorious" scenes in Black Emanuelle are hardcore inserts, although the version of that film aired on cable has edited out the majority of such scenes.
Most of her films were directed by Joe D'Amato, and they are now regarded as samples of the Italian erotic horror cult films. Some of her films are Emmanuelle 2 (1975), Black Emanuelle (1975), Eva nera (1976), Emanuelle in America (1976) and Emanuelle and the Last Cannibals (1977), and Caligola: la Storia mai raccontata (1981).
After more than a decade as a sex symbol, Gemser turned to costume design for mainstream film (although she continued taking small roles). Among others, Gemser provided costume design and coordination for the 1990 film Troll 2. The movie, as well as the costuming, was widely mocked by syndicated film critics, and it has been on several "worst movies of all time" lists since its release.
In 1976 she married the actor Gabriele Tinti. They appeared together in about two dozen movies. Gemser retired from acting after his sudden death in 1991.
According to cult film historian Remo D (Shane M. Dallman), Laura was once married to her frequent director, Joe D'Amato. This was revealed on his Manor of Mayhem show, in the episode that featured "Metamorphosis."