There was a specific sub-genre of "historical romps" in the 80s that has mostly disappeared. This film stands as a primary example of that lost style of adult-themed comedy. Comparing it to the Source Material
Revival screenings at midnight movie festivals in Los Angeles and London have turned the film into a Rocky Horror-style participation event. Audience members are known to throw popcorn when the Pardoner laughs and shout “CHaucer would be rolling in his grave!” during the sex montages. The Ribald Tales Of Canterbury -1985- -Classic-
The soundtrack is a bizarre mix of public domain classical music (Vivaldi for romantic scenes) and original synth-funk played on a Casio keyboard. The opening theme, a choral ditty that sings “Come listen close to tales of lust / In Canterbury, in God we trust” is an earworm of the highest, most regrettable order. There was a specific sub-genre of "historical romps"
What elevates The Ribald Tales of Canterbury from mere smut to a true “1985 Classic” is its heart. Unlike the cold, mechanical pornography that would flood the home video market later in the decade, this film is warm, goofy, and almost innocent. The actors, many of whom were struggling stage performers or retired adult stars trying to break into “legitimate” comedy, seem to be genuinely having fun. There are flubbed lines left in the final cut. You can see a boom mic dip into frame during a particularly vigorous kiss. The soundtrack features a terrible folk-rock ballad called “Pilgrim’s Lust” that repeats the chorus, “Gonna ride my mule to Canterbury / And ring your little bell.” Audience members are known to throw popcorn when
So, why do collectors still search for this specific 1985 title?
—reportedly rented from Universal Studios—that go beyond standard adult film expectations. Humor and Tone