To: pml1@yahoogroups.com
From: Mark Tomlonson
Date: Wed, 01 Oct 2003 09:26:24 -0400
Subject: [PML1] CC: Stella Stevens

In Stella Stevens' centerfold (January 1960) she's warming herself in 
front of the fire. From the look in her eyes she's creating her own fire.

If I understand the stories I've heard correctly, there was a lot of 
tension surrounding the creation of this centerfold and Stella's 
relationship with PEI after her PMOM appearance. Given that, it's a 
testament to Stella's skills as an actress that none of that tension 
shows in the centerfold. Maybe she's sublimating her business tension 
into a sexual tension.

This photo is clearly a product of the late fifties and early sixties. 
The lines are sparse, direct and simple with little ornamentation. The 
textures and forms come in big blocks: the flagstones, the drapes, and 
the fireplace.

This is a great pose for Stella. The erotic appeal owes only a small 
amount to her beautiful bottom. It's almost entirely due to her 
expression. There is no mistaking what's on her mind, when she wants it 
or her abilities to get it.

I do wonder about the choice in lighting and the use of the bright red 
cushion. The two of them work together to give Stella an unfair and 
unflattering pasty looking skin.

Photographers: Don Ornitz, Frank Schallwig

Scoring:
Pin-up: 4.0
Erotic: 3.5
Artistic: 2.0

Overall: 3.5

Cyber Club Portfolio Photo I like better than the Centerfold: (There is 
no portfolio)

http://cyber.playboy.com/members/playmates/files/1960/01/centerfold.html

Update:

As it turns out, I didn't understand the stories correctly. Stella's 
quarrels with PEI occurred after her PMOM appearance. For the full 
story, I suggest Steve Sullivan's book "Va-Va-Voom!"

Mark Tomlonson
Kalamazoo MI