Under Suspicion is a psychological thriller directed by Stephen Hopkins, released in 1991

 Below Her Mouth (2016) is a Canadian erotic drama film directed by April Mullen. It's known for being a bold and unapologetically sensual exploration of the complexities of love, desire, and self-discovery, particularly within a lesbian relationship. The film is often noted for its raw depiction of intimacy and the chemistry between its leads.

Plot:

The story centers on Jasmine (played by Natalie Krill), a woman who is engaged to a man but finds herself drawn to a passionate encounter with a woman named Dallas (played by Erika Linder). The film follows their intense and whirlwind romance, exploring their emotional connection as well as the physicality of their relationship. As Jasmine confronts her desires and identity, both characters are forced to navigate the consequences of their feelings and the impact their relationship has on their existing lives.

The film is divided into two halves: the first being a focus on the physical attraction and sexual chemistry between Jasmine and Dallas, and the second being more reflective, as the characters grapple with their emotions, relationships, and self-realizations.

Strengths:

• Authentic Sexuality: Below Her Mouth is often praised for its raw, honest depiction of sex and desire. The film’s portrayal of intimacy is direct, tender, and unfiltered, offering a portrayal of lesbian relationships that feels real and unidealized. The scenes are explicit, but they're also emotionally charged, and the chemistry between Krill and Linder adds depth to the narrative.

• Strong Performances: Both Natalie Krill and Erika Linder deliver compelling performances. Krill, who plays the conflicted Jasmine, brings a mix of vulnerability and strength to her character, while Linder’s portrayal of the free-spirited Dallas is magnetic. Their dynamic and chemistry carry the emotional weight of the film, making it more than just an erotic drama.

• Visually Striking: The cinematography by Maya Bankovic is beautiful, capturing the intimate moments with a sensual and artistic flair. The camera work often feels like it’s immersing the viewer in the characters' experience, making the film feel both personal and atmospheric.

Weaknesses:

• Plot Simplicity: While the film’s focus on intimacy and emotional exploration is its strength, the plot itself can feel somewhat thin. The story primarily revolves around the evolving romantic and sexual relationship, and some viewers might feel that there isn’t enough substance or narrative development outside of that central dynamic.

• Pacing Issues: The film’s pacing can feel slow in parts, especially in the second half when it shifts toward introspection and emotional conflict. This might lead to a sense of repetitiveness, especially for those who were more engaged with the film's erotic elements than its emotional underpinnings.

• Narrow Appeal: While Below Her Mouth will likely resonate strongly with audiences looking for an intimate, explicitly queer love story, its narrow focus on eroticism may not appeal to viewers looking for a more conventional, plot-driven narrative. The heavy emphasis on sexual exploration and identity may limit its accessibility to a broader audience.

Final Thoughts:

Below Her Mouth is a bold and visually striking film that offers an unfiltered portrayal of love and desire between two women. It’s a compelling watch for those looking for a raw, sensual, and emotionally charged exploration of queer relationships. While the plot may lack complexity for some and the pacing can feel slow at times, the film’s strong performances, powerful chemistry, and unapologetic portrayal of intimacy make it a significant and unique entry in queer cinema. It’s an intimate and sensual exploration of self-discovery, which is sure to resonate with viewers who appreciate emotional depth alongside eroticism.