AllMovie

The vast world of sexual fetishes gets a non-judgmental look with this independently produced documentary. Beyond Vanilla analyzes the history of various kinks and fetishes from the points-of-view of sex experts, porn stars, and the average folks who choose to indulge in them. Arranged in sections, fetish by fetish, Beyond Vanilla starts with sadomasochism and bondage, working its way through more taboo topics such as piercing, electric shock, and blood play. Among the adult-entertainment luminaries interviewed on their proclivities are Nina Hartley and Cole Tucker. Beyond Vanilla made the festival rounds in 2002, playing the Silverlake Film Festival, the London Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, and the New York S/M Film Festival before receiving a very limited release in May of 2003.