Justine (based on the novel by the Marquis de Sade): directed by Jess Franco 1969

The Marquis de Sade influenced many significant writers.  Justine was one of his more famous novels. Indeed, it is even referenced in Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein.

The Marquis de Sade seemed interested in exposing hypocrisy and in Justine he presents a world devoid of sincere kindness and humanity.  Everyone seems driven by his/her own interests and lusts and the guiltiest folks seem to be from the Church. Sade seems to imply that the notion of disinterested altruism and humanity is a lie, indeed a profitable lie used to exploit and harm others.

My interpretation might be inaccurate, but if it is accurate, I would tend to disagree with Sade since I tend to believe that kindness and mercy can be possible and can transform the world.

Actually, a film was made about this debate - Marat/Sade.  You can see it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJc4I6pivqg

This film - Justine - includes nudity.

Justine, directed by Jess Franco is here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8WV0Wo7K-0

Marat/Sade : Directed by Peter Brook (1967) Written by Peter Weiss

Of all the movies I went to see at the Parkway, this was my favorite.

It is based on a play by Peter Weiss - a German/Swiss writer and artist.

In the play, the Marquis de Sade is in an insane asylum and he writes a play about the assassination of Jean Paul Marat.  The play thus gives Sade an opportunity to present a type of philosophical dialogue between himself and the murdered Marat.

You watch the movie as if you are in the audience of the insane asylum watching the play.

Basically the dialogue concerns whether it is meaningful to take social action to change things that are wrong (among other topics).  de Sade represents a type of hedonism or even pessimistic defeatism (as if there is no such thing as 'social perfection') and Marat a type of idealistic social activism. 

It's a complex play - I am not sure I like everything about Brook's directing.  The movie/acting can seem a bit melodramatic.  I loved the music when I was younger. Overall it's worth watching.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJc4I6pivqg