The "Emmanuelle Series" is a collection of erotic films that began with the 1974 movie "Emmanuelle," directed by Just Jaeckin. The series follows the character Emmanuelle, a young woman exploring her sexuality and engaging in various romantic and sexual encounters. The films are known for their sensual themes and have gained a cult following over the years. The original film was based on the novel "Emmanuelle" by Emmanuelle Arsan, which was published in 1959. The series has spawned several sequels and spin-offs, with varying degrees of success and popularity. The films often emphasize themes of liberation and self-discovery within the context of eroticism.