Renowned for his boundary-pushing films and unparalleled influence on American cinema, Russ Meyer has been described in myriad ways: as “a one-man film industry” by The Guardian, “the first feminist American director” by B. Ruby Rich, and “the ultimate auteur” by Roger Ebert. With an impressive body of work that includes iconic titles such as Lorna, Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!, Beyond the Valley of the Dolls, and the legendary Vixen Trilogy, Meyer’s creative vision and maverick spirit have left an indelible mark on the film industry.
However, following his death in 2004, the future of Meyer’s groundbreaking catalog became uncertain, shrouded in mystery and accessible only through rumor. The films remained largely unseen and unattainable for contemporary audiences—until now.
A New Dawn for Meyer’s Films
In 2023, Severin Films made a compelling pitch to The Russ Meyer Charitable Trust, led by Meyer’s longtime Executive Assistant Janice Cowart. With Cowart being the last remaining trustee, she had been tirelessly preserving Meyer’s works in the years following his passing. Severin Films pledged to spare no expense in restoring and releasing many of his films, ensuring they receive the gold standard of presentation they rightfully deserve.
The inaugural trio of films set for restoration includes Vixen, Supervixens, and Beneath the Valley of the Ultravixens. This partnership marks the first time these films have been mastered from their negatives since the early ’80s, with new and archival special features curated exclusively for these releases.
Russ Meyer for a new generation of film fans
With the revitalization of Russ Meyer’s films, fans of the director and newcomers alike will soon have the opportunity to experience these groundbreaking works in a way that honors Meyer’s original vision. The restoration effort not only celebrates the legacy of an iconic filmmaker but also ensures that his influential storytelling reaches audiences for generations to come. Keep an eye out for these exciting releases from Severin Films!