If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, William Friedkin may still be blushing. If nothing else, these two films are evidence of the impact The Exorcist had, years after its initial release. Malabimba begins with a seance led by the wide eyed Elisa Mainardi. The name may not be familiar, but the face is one that has appeared in several Fellini films for good reason. After zipping open Enzo Fisichella's fly and ripping off Patrizia Webley's dress, the spirit takes over the young daughter played by Ms. Laennec. Not only does Laennec speak in a very low voice and run around in various states of undress, but she does things with her stuffed dolls that would probably bar her from future visits to FAO Schwarz.

In Satan's Baby Doll, Jacqueline Dupre is also possessed by the spirit of her mother. Additionally, the dead mother, portrayed by the appropriately named porn star Marina Hedman physically reappears to haunt the family. There is one nod to classic horror films when the Devil worshipping servant is killed by a reanimated mummy shortly after having chicken dinner in the manner of Tyrone Power. Satan's Baby Doll also is the only film I know of with a scene of lesbian necrophilia. And sure enough, it should be noted that Malabimba and Satan's Baby Doll were both written by the prolific Piero Regnoli. The auteur of Playgirls and the Vampire proves that when it comes to sex and horror, some things just can't stay buried.