Celebrating Russ Meyer’s Vision: Severin Films Brings the Vixen Trilogy Back to Life

Russ Meyer is a name synonymous with cult cinema, and for good reason. Known for his provocative narratives and unapologetically bold style, Meyer carved out a niche in the annals of American independent filmmaking. Severin Films’ recently announced restoration of his iconic Vixen Trilogy—featuring Vixen, Supervixens, and Beneath the Valley of the Ultravixens—has set cinephiles abuzz. With UHD and Blu-ray premieres complemented by nine hours of bonus content, this release is a treasure trove for fans and an enticing gateway for newcomers to Meyer’s world. Here’s why this project is a landmark in preserving the legacy of one of cinema’s most fearless auteurs.

Russ Meyer A Legacy of Provocation and Vision

Russ Meyer was more than a filmmaker; he was a cultural provocateur. Films like Vixen didn’t just entertain—they challenged societal norms and censorship boundaries. Armed with audacious themes that tackled racism, sexual liberation, and the hypocrisy of societal taboos, Meyer’s work is both a time capsule of the 1960s and 70s and a timeless commentary on human nature.

Severin Films honored this legacy by restoring these films in stunning 4K from their original negatives. Collaborating with The Russ Meyer Trust and institutions like The Museum of Modern Art, the studio has ensured these classics are preserved in all their vibrant, transgressive glory.

The Films: A Closer Look

Vixen (1968):
With a razor-thin budget of $70,000, Meyer created a film that resonated far beyond its exploitation roots. Vixen introduces us to Erica Gavin’s unforgettable titular character, a free-spirited, fiercely sexual woman whose escapades touch on draft dodging, communism, and racial tensions. It’s no surprise that the film became a lightning rod for censorship battles, enduring 23 U.S. prosecutions for obscenity. This restored edition includes insightful commentaries, interviews, and an exploration of its historic Cincinnati court battles. For fans of cult cinema, Vixen is a must-watch, both as an artistic statement and a sociopolitical artifact.

Supervixens (1975):
In Supervixens, Meyer doubles down on his penchant for excess. The film is a hyperkinetic blend of sex, violence, and surrealism, described by Empire as a “super-sexy live-action Road Runner cartoon.” Shari Eubank shines as the fiery lead, delivering a performance that’s as exaggerated as it is enthralling, a wet fever dream if you will. Its weird and made me feel things. With archival interviews, commentary tracks, and a fascinating segment from The Incredibly Strange Film Show, Severin’s edition dives deep into this wildly entertaining spectacle from a moment in American cinema that feels like it could never happen again.

Beneath the Valley of the Ultravixens (1979):
Meyer’s final major feature is an unrestrained romp that revels in its absurdity. Featuring the iconic Kitten Natividad, this film explores small-town America through Meyer’s signature lens of sex, satire, and spectacle. The meticulous restoration of this film’s weather-damaged negative is a testament to Severin’s dedication. Bonus content, including archival interviews with Meyer and a newly recorded discussion with Ellen Adelstein, ensures fans can fully appreciate the context and craft behind this audacious work.

Special Features: A Goldmine for Fans

The Vixen Trilogy restoration isn’t just about visual fidelity—it’s about enriching the cinematic experience. Severin Films has curated hours of bonus materials, including archival interviews with Meyer, commentary tracks by stars like Erica Gavin, and featurettes on censorship battles and Meyer’s cultural impact. Highlights include a rare episode of Jonathan Ross’ The Incredibly Strange Film Show, a 1979 Tucson talk show appearance, and an in-depth look at Vixen’s infamous obscenity trials. These features provide historical and cultural context, offering a deeper appreciation of Meyer’s work and the era it emerged from. A film class would have a hey day with all of the viewpoints offered. Now if we could just find a class that we could show this in.

A Celebration of Independent Cinema and Russ Meyer

Severin Films has long been a champion of niche and cult cinema, and their treatment of the Vixen Trilogy is a masterclass in film restoration and preservation. By partnering with The Russ Meyer Trust, they’ve ensured that these films remain accessible to audiences worldwide, both as entertainment and as historical documents. This release also underscores Meyer’s role as a First Amendment warrior, a filmmaker unafraid to push boundaries and challenge authority. In today’s media landscape, where streaming giants dominate, projects like this remind us of the importance of preserving cinematic history. Russ Meyer’s films are more than guilty pleasures—they’re bold statements on freedom, artistry, and rebellion. The Vixen Trilogy restoration allows us to revisit and re-evaluate these works through a contemporary lens, appreciating their artistry while acknowledging their imperfections.

Severin Films’ Vixen Trilogy release is a gift to film lovers, a meticulously crafted homage to one of America’s most audacious filmmakers. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this collection offers an immersive journey into the provocative, satirical, and undeniably entertaining world of Russ Meyer. With stunning restorations, rich bonus content, and an emphasis on historical context, this release is not just a celebration of Meyer’s legacy—it’s a celebration of the unrestrained spirit of independent cinema.