Whipsmart is a wonderful DVD for those beginning their journey into the world of BDSM. I will admit that I did not read the description as thoroughly as I should have; therefore I was expecting a more advanced demonstration.

The pros of this DVD are many for beginners. Each step of the process, starting from approaching your partner with your desires, is outlined expertly and concisely. The host of the DVD, Mistress Morgana, is knowledgeable and comfortable with discussing the basics of bringing up BDSM with your partner. After reviewing basic BDSM terms such as safe words, and the need for scissors in your toy bag, the DVD moves on to more interesting aspects of S/M.

The rope bondage section was informative. My partner and I learned a few new knots. The section covered many solid basic knots for beginners. The film features role-playing, cross-dressing, candle-wax, sensory deprivation, and spanking, in addition to a very interesting scene that will never have you looking at lasagna or your kitchen the same way again. Each fetish/aspect that was touched on briefly, nothing was particularly explained in depth. I would have liked more explanation for a beginners instructional DVD.

Some cons are that it is informative, but basic. My partner and I felt that it wasn’t graphic enough, no sex, just play which had a somewhat cartoon feeling at times. Other than the demonstrations of the fetishes/activities there were only two scenes that were of people playing and those were rather tame. My partner commented that he felt that as soon as the film was beginning to “heat up” it was over.

Over all, it is a good film for beginners and certainly gives the basis of BDSM practices. On a completely unimportant note: Mistress Morgana’s hair annoyed us. It could have been written at a bit higher level, as the people are beginners, not idiots. I would recommend it for those who have absolutely no idea how to go about approaching their partners with their desires and who are completely ignorant of BDSM practices. More advanced players should probably skip this title.

On a repeated viewing, I realized that I may have judged this film a little harshly. It is a perfect beginner film and should be viewed as such. It has a lot of basic information and is valuable in that regard.